UPDATE: KISS members have expressed their excitement following Donald Trump’s announcement that the band will be honored at the Kennedy Center Honors this year. The revelation came on August 13, 2025, igniting discussions about the controversial relationship between the rock legends and the former president.
This year’s honors will also celebrate notable figures such as George Strait, Michael Crawford, Gloria Gaynor, and Sylvester Stallone. Trump’s involvement in selecting honorees marks a significant shift, as he plans to become the first U.S. president to host the prestigious event.
KISS members, who have previously criticized Trump, now express profound gratitude for the recognition. Bassist and vocalist Gene Simmons stated, “KISS is the embodiment of the American dream. We are deeply honored to receive the Kennedy Center Honor.” Fellow band member Paul Stanley echoed this sentiment, highlighting the legacy of KISS and the hard work that paved their path to success.
Former guitarist Ace Frehley called the honor a “dream come true,” while former drummer Peter Criss described it as “the greatest honor of our career.” This reaction is particularly noteworthy given KISS’s past criticisms of Trump’s presidency.
Just last year, Simmons condemned Trump’s actions, stating, “Look what that gentleman did to this country… all the cockroaches to rise to the top.” Similarly, Stanley has labeled Trump’s behavior as “ABHORRENT” and a “true danger to our democracy.” His past statements regarding the Capitol riots on January 6, 2021, included calling the participants “TERRORISTS.”
The upcoming Kennedy Center Honors ceremony will air on CBS in December, creating anticipation around the event amidst ongoing debates about Trump’s political legacy.
This honor comes at a time when Trump’s political influence remains divisive. The selection of KISS, which has been critical of Trump in the past, raises eyebrows about the dynamics between artists and political figures.
KISS, known for their theatrical performances and classic hits like “Love Gun” and “Black Diamond,” continues to push boundaries in both music and public discourse. Their inclusion among this year’s honorees signifies the complex intersection of celebrity culture and politics, leaving fans and critics alike eager to see how this narrative unfolds.
As the Kennedy Center Honors approaches, all eyes will be on the event, and the reactions from both the honorees and the public will surely shape the conversation around celebrity involvement in political matters.
Stay tuned for more updates as the event date nears and further developments arise.
