News/Commentary

Stars resign from Kennedy Center after Trump gains chair position

February 13, 2025 | | Print Article

As the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts confirmed President Donald Trump as its new chairman, some board members made a hasty exit.

Trump replaced multiple members of the Kennedy Center Board of Trustees as he announced last week he would be taking over as chair. The new board elected him to the position and some artists evidently could not continue to do their jobs with the president leading the national cultural center.

Artistic adviser Renee Fleming sang the praises of former board Chairman David Rubenstein as “the greatest patriot I know” as she announced her departure. She also called the center’s former President Deborah Rutter, “a tireless, creative leader.”

“They have both been an inspiration to me; and out of respect, I think it right to depart as well,” the award-winning opera singer and actress said in a statement.

Musician Ben Folds resigned as artistic adviser to the National Symphony Orchestra. Citing “developments at the Kennedy Center” in his resignation statement, the former Ben Folds Five singer added, “Not for me.”

“It’s been a wonderful 8 years,” he added, recalling how he and the staff encouraged “thousands of fresh new audiences to appreciate symphonic music.”

Also reportedly out with Trump’s entrance is television writer and producer Shonda Rhimes, who served as the board’s treasurer.

“Please be advised that as of today, Shonda Rhimes has resigned from the board of the Kennedy Center,” a spokesperson told Deadline.

According to CNN:

Trump on Monday named Ric Grenell, a longtime confidant already serving in multiple administration positions, to lead the Kennedy Center on a temporary basis.

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Newly announced members of the center’s board include second lady Usha Vance; top Trump aides Dan Scavino and Sergio Gor; chief of staff Susie Wiles; and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick’s wife, Allison Lutnick.

Earlier in the week, Trump explained to reporters, “So we took over the Kennedy Center. We didn’t like what they were showing and various other things.”

Last week, he announced on Truth Social the changes to the center named for former President John F. Kennedy.

“I have decided to immediately terminate multiple individuals from the Board of Trustees, including the Chairman, who do not share our Vision for a Golden Age in Arts and Culture. We will soon announce a new Board, with an amazing Chairman, DONALD J. TRUMP!” the president said.

“Just last year, the Kennedy Center featured Drag Shows specifically targeting our youth — THIS WILL STOP. The Kennedy Center is an American Jewel, and must reflect the brightest STARS on its stage from all across our Nation. For the Kennedy Center, THE BEST IS YET TO COME!” Trump said.

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Frieda Powers
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