The 48th Annual Kennedy Center Honors aired on CBS on December 23, 2025, celebrating a star-studded group of artists for their lifetime contributions to the performing arts. This year’s event took place against a backdrop of ongoing debate over the future name of the iconic cultural institution in Washington, D.C.
Although the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts was renamed by its board to include Donald J. Trump’s name, CBS chose to use the traditional “Kennedy Center Honors” title in its broadcast. The network said an official name change requires Congressional approval and upheld this standard during the televised event.
A Night to Celebrate the Arts
Honorees Recognized for Lifetime Achievement
The 2025 Honorees represented a wide spectrum of American entertainment from rock and country music to acting and theater. This year’s recipients were:
- Sylvester Stallone, actor and pop-culture icon
- Michael Crawford, award-winning Broadway and screen actor
- George Strait, legendary country music star
- Gloria Gaynor, disco and gospel pioneer
- KISS, the influential rock band including Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Peter Criss and honoring late guitarist Ace Frehley
The ceremony included memorable performances and tributes from a range of artists inspired by the honorees’ work.
CBS Broadcast and Streaming Details
How Audiences Watched
Though recorded earlier in the month, the Honors aired on CBS Television Network and Paramount+ on the evening of December 23, 2025, from 8 PM to 10:30 PM ET/PT.
Fans could stream the event live on Paramount+ or watch it on broadcast TV through CBS affiliates across the country. This annual broadcast brings the gala into homes nationwide, allowing viewers to enjoy the tributes and performances.
Why the Broadcast Kept the Original Name
CBS Standards and Practices
Despite controversy around the Kennedy Center’s internal decision to change its name, CBS News standards instructed staff to refer to the event using its long-standing title: Kennedy Center Honors. Network officials emphasized that any formal name change must come through Congressional action.
This decision came amid debates over branding and institutional identity after the board’s move to include former President Trump’s name on the building and promotional materials.
Trump’s Role and Involvement
A New Kind of Host
This year marked an unusual twist in the Honors’ history. President Donald Trump served as host of the ceremony, a first for a sitting president in the event’s nearly 50-year history. Trump appeared in prerecorded segments during the broadcast introducing honorees from the Oval Office.
While his remarks were heavily edited for the broadcast, he also promoted the event on social media as “THE TRUMP KENNEDY CENTER HONORS,” encouraging viewers to tune in and share their thoughts.
In addition to hosting, Trump’s influence extends beyond the telecast. Earlier this month, the center’s board restructured with his allies voted to rename the institution the “Donald J. Trump and John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts,” a decision that critics say lacks legal authority.
Memorable Moments From the Evening
Highlights and Performances
The ceremony opened with a vibrant tribute to Sylvester Stallone’s iconic Rocky franchise, including renditions of “Gonna Fly Now” and appearances by Kurt Russell, Garrett Hedlund, and Frank Stallone.
Country stars Brooks & Dunn took the stage to salute George Strait with classic hits, while disco and pop performances celebrated Gloria Gaynor’s enduring anthem “I Will Survive.”
The evening concluded with a high-energy tribute to KISS, featuring performances of “Rock and Roll All Nite” by Cheap Trick that brought many in attendance to their feet.
Reactions to the Broadcast
Public and Industry Response
The broadcast drew attention not only for its artistic content but also for the broader debate around the institution’s identity. Some viewers appreciated the return to tradition with the classic event name on CBS, while others weighed in with mixed reactions to Trump’s hosting role. Discussions online reflected a wide range of opinions about the blend of entertainment and politics in cultural events.
The Kennedy Center Honors: A Legacy of Culture
Honoring Artistic Achievement
Since its inception in 1978, the Kennedy Center Honors has celebrated artists whose work has had a profound impact on American culture. The event typically draws performers, industry leaders, and dignitaries to the Kennedy Center Opera House in Washington, D.C., and culminates in a televised special that shares those celebrations with a national audience.
This year’s ceremony continued that tradition while also spotlighting debates over institutional direction and branding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When did the Kennedy Center Honors air on TV?
The 2025 broadcast aired on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, from 8 PM to 10:30 PM ET on CBS and Paramount+.
Who were the honorees at the 48th Annual Kennedy Center Honors?
This year’s honorees included Sylvester Stallone, Michael Crawford, George Strait, Gloria Gaynor, and the rock band KISS.
Why did CBS keep the original event name?
CBS said it maintained the Kennedy Center Honors title because a formal name change must be approved by Congress.
Did a sitting president host the event?
Yes. President Donald Trump hosted the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors, a first in the event’s history.