KISS Named Among 2025 Kennedy Center Honorees by President Trump

Somewhat-retired rock icons KISS are set to receive one of the United States’ most prestigious cultural accolades — the Kennedy Center Honor. The award recognizes individuals who’ve made a lasting impact on American culture through the performing arts. This year’s selections were approved directly by U.S. President Donald J. Trump, who currently serves as the Kennedy Center’s chairman.

Trump, who earlier this year reshaped the Center’s board by replacing several members with political allies (including Second Lady Usha Vance), personally signed off on this year’s honorees, telling reporters:

“I turned down plenty. I had a couple of wokesters… The 48th Kennedy Center honorees are outstanding people, an outstanding group — incredible. We can’t wait to celebrate.”

Joining KISS on the 2025 list are actor Sylvester Stallone, country legend George Strait, disco pioneer Gloria Gaynor, and more. The ceremony will be hosted by Trump and is expected to be televised in December.

While KISS wrapped their farewell tour in late 2023 with plans to live on as digital avatars — followed by a $300 million sale of their brand, masters, and royalties — the band confirmed they’ll hit the stage again this November for their fan club’s 50th anniversary.

Reacting to the honor, Gene Simmons told TMZ:

“KISS is the embodiment of the American Dream. We are deeply honored to receive the Kennedy Center Honor.” Paul Stanley added, “From our earliest days, KISS has embodied the American ideal that all things are possible and that hard work pays off… I accept this on behalf of the long legacy of KISS and all of the band members who helped create our iconic band.”

Former drummer Peter Criss called it “the greatest honor of our career.”

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