The 2025 Kennedy Center Honors took center stage in Washington, D.C., as President Donald Trump presented medals to this year’s recipients during an Oval Office ceremony on December 6, marking a highly anticipated moment for the nation’s leading cultural awards program. The gathering formally recognized actor Sylvester Stallone, country music icon George Strait, rock band KISS, disco legend Gloria Gaynor, and actor-singer Michael Crawford for their influence on American arts.
The event featured each honoree receiving a newly designed medallion crafted by Tiffany & Co. The smaller gold medallion, suspended from a navy-blue ribbon, replaces the long-used rainbow ribbon design. The White House confirmed the president’s close involvement in the selection process and in the updated presentation format.
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A Closer Look at the Oval Office Ceremony
The medal presentation was held one day before the annual performance gala at the Kennedy Center. During the ceremony, the honorees—dressed in formal attire—were greeted individually by the president, who detailed their contributions to American culture and entertainment. Following the presentation, guests participated in a formal dinner event.
The gala tribute show, set for December 7, will feature musical performances and stage tributes honoring each recipient. The recorded program will air nationally on CBS and stream on Paramount+.
Meet the 2025 Honorees
Sylvester Stallone
Known globally for the Rocky and Rambo franchises, Stallone was honored for decades of impact on film, storytelling, and American pop culture. His body of work spans acting, directing, and writing, making him one of Hollywood’s most enduring figures.
George Strait
The “King of Country” was recognized for a career that includes dozens of No. 1 hits and a legacy that shaped modern country music. Strait remains one of the best-selling and most influential artists in the genre’s history.
KISS
The iconic rock band received honors as a group, celebrating a career known for theatrical performances, global tours, and cultural longevity. Members representing KISS attended the ceremony.
Gloria Gaynor
Her enduring hit “I Will Survive” has become a cultural anthem, and Gaynor’s decades-long career continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Her influence in disco, pop, and empowerment-driven music remains significant.
Michael Crawford
A celebrated actor and singer with achievements in musical theater and film, Crawford was recognized for a wide-ranging career that includes acclaimed performances across international stages.
Institutional and Leadership Developments in 2025
This year’s honors come after a period of leadership changes at the Kennedy Center. Earlier in 2025, the institution underwent board and staff restructuring, with new appointments and reported departures. The White House played a more direct role in the event’s format compared to past years, including commissioning newly designed medallions and hosting the medal ceremony in the Oval Office.
These changes contributed to public discussion surrounding the institution’s direction, though the Kennedy Center Honors program remains focused on celebrating lifetime achievements in American arts.
Televised Special and What Viewers Can Expect
The 48th annual Kennedy Center Honors broadcast will showcase performance tributes, archival highlights, and moments from the gala. The event traditionally draws significant national viewership, and the 2025 edition features a diverse lineup representing film, country, rock, disco, and theater.
This year, the White House confirmed that the president will participate in hosting elements of the television special—an uncommon level of involvement compared to previous administrations.
The New Medallion: A Notable Change
One of the most visible updates this year comes from the redesigned medallion. Tiffany & Co. created a polished gold disc etched with a Kennedy Center emblem, paired with a deep blue ribbon, marking a shift from the program’s longtime rainbow design. The new medal was formally introduced during the White House ceremony.
Why the 2025 Class Stands Out
This year’s honorees represent a broad spectrum of American entertainment. From blockbuster film and country music to rock theatrics, disco classics, and global stage performances, the 2025 class reflects the variety and cultural reach of American artistic contributions.
Their recognition underscores how the Kennedy Center Honors continues to spotlight creators who shape the nation’s cultural identity.
What Comes Next
The gala tributes will air soon, followed by national reactions and reviews. Future updates from the Kennedy Center may detail additional programming and leadership developments as the institution moves through its 2025–2026 season.
