A few weeks ago, President Trump hosted the annual (newly re-named) Trump Kennedy Center awards.
Tonight, the whole thing was broadcast for us all to watch.
The giant event was star-studded, with celebrities like Sylvester Stallone and KISS in the crowd among thousands of patriotic attendees.
As soon as President Trump appeared on stage, they all burst out in overwhelming applause.
Watch President Trump’s full opening here:
WATCH: MASSIVE applause for President Trump as he hosts the Trump Kennedy Center Awards
He even received a standing ovation from SYLVESTER STALLONE, KISS, and THOUSANDS of patriots in the crowd.
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) December 24, 2025
The full 48th Trump Kennedy Center Honors show was broadcast at 8 PM EST on CBS and Paramount+ Stream.
The Wrap provided a summary:
While President Trump was definitely a draw, the evening ended up being a celebration of honoree and Hollywood Special Ambassador, Sylvester Stallone. The event even began with a musical performance of “Gonna Fly Now” from “Rocky.”
Trump’s hosting duties further marked the first time a president has helmed the awards ceremony, whereas his predecessors typically attended alongside the honorees. This was also his first KCH after abstaining from the tradition during his first term.
CBS noted the award recipients:
Who are the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors recipients?
Mr. Trump announced the list of this year’s honorees over the summer. They are:
George Strait
Gloria Gaynor
The rock band Kiss: Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Peter Criss and the late Ace Frehley
Michael Crawford
Sylvester Stallone
What an incredible time we are living in!

WATCH: MASSIVE applause for President Trump as he hosts the Trump Kennedy Center Awards
