President Trump Hosts The 2025 Kennedy Center Honors

The 2025 Kennedy Center Honors took place on December 7 in Washington, D.C., and country star Garth Brooks stole the spotlight in an unexpected fashion.

The Kennedy Center Honors, held annually in Washington, D.C., recognize individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to American culture through the performing arts. Established in 1978, the prestigious event honors artists across music, theater, dance, opera, and film for their lifetime achievements.

The ceremony typically features performances and tributes from fellow artists, friends, and admirers of the honorees. Past recipients include legendary music artists including Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, and Loretta Lynn. The Honors are presented by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and are widely regarded as one of the highest accolades in entertainment.

President Donald J. Trump made history at this year’s ceremony, marking the first time a sitting U.S. president hosted the event rather than simply attending.

Earlier this year, Trump named those who will be recognized at the ceremony in 2025, with country music legend George Strait being one of them.

Iconic rock band KISS also received honors, as members paid tribute to their late guitarist Ace Frehley during the celebrations.

While many anticipated a heartfelt nod to his close friend George Strait, Garth Brooks had a surprise that delighted the audience. Following Trump’s pre-recorded introduction, in which he named KISS as “one of the greatest rock and roll institutions,” Garth Brooks took the stage.

“I see some faces of confusion,” Brooks joked. “No we are in the right segment of the show, people.”

Garth Brooks Performs At 45th Annual Kennedy Center Honors (Photo by Mary Kouw/CBS via Getty Images)

Garth Brooks Delivers Iconic Performance Of Shout It Out Loud

In an unexpected twist at the Kennedy Center, Brooks tore into an energetic rendition of KISS’s “Shout It Out Loud.”

Getting the audience on their feet, Brooks had KISS frontman Gene Simmons, seated next to President Trump, dancing and singing along.

Released in 1976 on KISS’ album Destroyer, the hit became the group’s first Top 40 hit in the United States. Brooks received a standing ovation from KISS following the incredible performance.