KISS Receives Kennedy Center Honors in White House Ceremony Led by President Trump

The iconic rock band KISS received a top American arts award this weekend. They were honored at the White House alongside other entertainment legends. The ceremony took place in the Oval Office on Saturday, December 6, 2025.

President Donald Trump presented the medals to the honorees. He called them “the most accomplished” class in the award’s history. The main **KISS Kennedy Center Honors** gala was scheduled for the following night.

Honorees Gather for Historic Medal Presentation

President Trump welcomed the group to the Oval Office. He praised their work for inspiring millions of Americans. According to pool reports, he described the office as the most famous and powerful in the world.

The band members Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss attended. Ace Frehley was honored posthumously, with his daughter accepting his medal. Country star George Strait and Broadway actor Michael Crawford were also recognized.

Disco legend Gloria Gaynor and actor Sylvester Stallone completed the list. Trump noted Stallone’s role in creating “some of the greatest movies ever.” He complimented Gaynor’s hair during the lighthearted ceremony.

Gala Set for Troubled Venue Amid High Expectations

The traditional star-studded gala was set for Sunday night at the Kennedy Center. The venue itself has faced recent operational and financial difficulties. Despite this, the show was expected to proceed as a major televised event.

President Trump announced his intention to host the gala. He made a bold prediction about its television ratings. He stated it would be “the highest-rated show they’ve ever done.”

According to Reuters, the broadcast is scheduled for December 23. It will air on CBS and be available for streaming on Paramount+. The event celebrates lifetime contributions to American culture through the performing arts.

The **KISS Kennedy Center Honors** recognition solidifies the band’s lasting impact on American music and spectacle. This year’s ceremony blends rock and roll heritage with presidential tradition for a unique chapter in the awards’ history.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Who received the Kennedy Center Honors in 2025?

The 2025 honorees are the band KISS, singer George Strait, disco artist Gloria Gaynor, actor Sylvester Stallone, and Broadway performer Michael Crawford. They were all honored for their lifetime contributions to American culture.

Where did the medal ceremony take place?

President Trump presented the honors medals in the Oval Office of the White House. This private ceremony occurred on Saturday, December 6, 2025, before the main public gala at the Kennedy Center.

When will the honors gala be televised?

The gala is scheduled to be broadcast on CBS and Paramount+ on December 23, 2025. President Trump stated he would host the event, which was recorded at the Kennedy Center on Sunday, December 7.

Which KISS members were present?

Founding members Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss attended the Oval Office ceremony. Original guitarist Ace Frehley, who passed away, was honored posthumously, with a family member accepting on his behalf.

What did President Trump say about the honorees?

He called them “icons” whose work uplifted millions. Trump described this group as perhaps the most accomplished class of Kennedy Center honorees ever assembled during the medal presentation.