Breaking: kennedy Center Honors 2025 Broadcast Shifts With Presidential Touches As Honorees Are Revealed
Table of Contents
- 1. Breaking: kennedy Center Honors 2025 Broadcast Shifts With Presidential Touches As Honorees Are Revealed
- 2. 2025 Kennedy Center Honors recipients
- 3. How to watch
- 4. Spotlight on the honorees
- 5. George Strait – The King of Country Music
- 6. Gloria Gaynor – Queen of Disco
- 7. Kiss – Rock Legends with a Lost Foundry of Legacy
- 8. Michael Crawford – Phantom of Broadway
- 9. Sylvester Stallone – A Rocky Biography, Reframed
- 10. New Kennedy Center medallions
- 11. Engagement and context
- 12.
The 2025 Kennedy Center Honors are set to be broadcast tonight on CBS, with streaming on Paramount+ starting at 8 p.m. Eastern and Pacific time. The ceremony spotlights the year’s five honorees for their contributions to the performing arts.
In a controversial turn, the White House has implemented sweeping changes at the Kennedy Center. Officials ousted the center’s board chair and president and installed former President Donald Trump and ally Richard Grenell in their stead. A White House statement last week announced the board’s vote to rename the institution the Trump-Kennedy Center, a move that has intensified debates over the site’s future direction.
Recorded earlier in December,this year’s ceremony marks Mr. Trump’s first appearance at the event during his presidency. He took a diffrent approach by hosting the program rather than occupying a seat among the honorees-a notable departure from recent presidential protocol.
Trump used social media to promote the broadcast, calling it an evening to honour “true GREATS in the History of Entertainment.” In a post on Truth Social,he asked followers to weigh in on his “Master of Ceremony” performance and mused about leaving the presidency to pursue hosting full-time.
2025 Kennedy Center Honors recipients
The honorees were announced earlier in the year. 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
How to watch
- What: the Kennedy Center Honors, hosted by the president, salute George Strait, Gloria Gaynor, Kiss, Michael Crawford, and Sylvester Stallone.
- Date: Tuesday, December 23, 2025
- Time: 8:00 p.m. ET/PT
- Television: CBS stations nationwide
- Online: Paramount+ streaming
Spotlight on the honorees
George Strait – The King of Country Music
george Strait is widely regarded as country music’s living legend, with enduring hits such as “all My Ex’s Live in Texas,” “Amarillo by Morning,” and “Check Yes or No.” The multiplatinum artist has earned numerous honors from the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association, plus a Grammy for best country album. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2006.
strait has spoken about staying true to his Western roots. In 2021, he received a lifetime achievement award from the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, crediting his father with teaching him the cowboy way and describing the challenge of remaining authentic in a demanding industry.
Strait recalled early career moments when labels urged him to shed his hat. He noted that keeping his signature look became a lasting part of his identity.
Gloria Gaynor – Queen of Disco
Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive” remains an emblem of resilience and empowerment. The track won a Grammy for best disco recording and was later added to the Library of Congress National Recording Registry in 2016, celebrated for its enduring impact within popular culture and the LGBTQ community.
Gaynor has recalled recording the hit during a arduous period, even after a serious on‑stage fall left her hospitalized for months. She described how the song captured the spirit of survival during tough times.
Kiss – Rock Legends with a Lost Foundry of Legacy
The rock band Kiss is honored amid somber notes, following the death of original lead guitarist Ace Frehley earlier this year. Bandmates Gene simmons and Paul Stanley reflected on the enduring partnership that helped shape the group’s four-decade career, which includes megahits and a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2014. Stanley and Simmons emphasize the shared experiences of two musicians who built a global brand from humble beginnings.
Known for their theatrical stage persona and makeup, Kiss remains one of rock’s most recognizable stories, celebrating a catalog that spans iconic tracks such as “Rock and Roll All nite” and “I Was Made for Lovin’ You.”
Michael Crawford – Phantom of Broadway
Michael Crawford rose to prominence as the original Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera, a role that earned him Olivier recognition and multiple Tony Awards when the production opened on Broadway in 1988. He describes the experience of performing the demanding show as a gift, emphasizing the thrill of delivering eight performances a week without missing a beat.
Sylvester Stallone – A Rocky Biography, Reframed
Sylvester Stallone reflects on the film that defined his career, insisting Rocky is more than a sports drama. He says the story is rooted in love and resilience,shaped by his own life lessons and the hope of portraying a noble hero on screen.
New Kennedy Center medallions
This year, the traditional rainbow ribbons and triple‑bar design have been replaced with new gold medallions designed by Tiffany & Co. Each medallion bears the Center’s image on one side, a spectrum of colors through the design, and the honoree’s name and award date on the reverse. The ribbons are navy blue, described by the center as a symbol of dignity and tradition.
| Honoree | Notable Role / Work | Key Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| George Strait | Country icon with string of enduring hits | Multiple ACM/ CMA awards; Grammy; Hall of Fame inductee (2006) |
| Gloria Gaynor | Disco pioneer behind “I Will Survive” | Grammy winner; National Recording Registry honoree (2016) |
| Kiss | Global rock legends with theatrical shows | Over 100 million records sold; Rock Hall inductees (2014); legacy shaped by Stanley and Simmons |
| Michael Crawford | Phantom Of The Opera star | Olivier Award; multiple Tony Awards for musical excellence |
| Sylvester Stallone | Rocky franchise creator and star | Oscar nominations for acting and writing; iconic film saga |
Engagement and context
As the ceremony unfolds, viewers weigh in on the evolving role of the Kennedy Center under new leadership and the symbolism of the medallions replacing the former rainbow ribbons. The night also signals a rare moment when a sitting president steps back from tradition to host the show, inviting broader discussion about the cultural influence of these honorees.
What elements of the ceremony will most influence public perception of the Kennedy Center’s direction? How should the center balance tradition with contemporary leadership amid political controversy?
Share your thoughts below and tell us which honoree you’re most excited to see celebrate tonight.
Disclaimer: This article covers entertainment and public events. For health, legal, or financial guidance, consult qualified professionals.
have you tuned in? Are you watching live or catching up later? Which moment resonated most with you-honorings tied to music history, or the evolving leadership narrative around the Kennedy Center?
where to Watch tonight’s Kennedy Center Honors Live
- Network: CBS (channel 2 in most major markets)
- Streaming Platform: Paramount+ (live TV and on‑demand after the broadcast)
- Air time: 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT on 12/23/2025
How to Access the CBS Broadcast
- Cable or Satellite Subscriber
- Locate your local CBS affiliate (e.g., WCBS‑NY, KPIX‑SF).
- Tune to the listed channel number in your TV guide.
- Antenna Users
- Connect a VHF/UHF indoor or outdoor antenna to your TV.
- Run a channel scan; CBS should appear as channel 2 or the market‑specific virtual channel.
- CBS Website or App (Free with TV Provider Login)
- Visit cbs.com or launch the CBS app on your smart TV, streaming device, or mobile.
- Sign in with your TV provider credentials (e.g., Comcast, DirecTV).
- Select “Live TV” → “CBS” → “Kennedy Center Honors.”
Key Tips for CBS Viewing
- check Time Zone: The show airs at 8 PM ET; adjust for Central, Mountain, or Pacific zones.
- Enable Closed Captions: Click the CC icon on the TV guide or app for accessibility.
- Set a Reminder: Most smart tvs and streaming apps let you schedule a reminder for the start time.
Streaming the Event on Paramount+
option
What You Get
Cost (2025)
Paramount+ premium
Live CBS stream + full on‑demand library
$12.99 /mo or $119.99 /yr
Paramount+ Essential (ad‑supported)
Live CBS stream (ads) + limited library
$4.99 /mo or $49.99 /yr
Paramount+ Free Trial
7‑day trial of Premium features (cancel before billing)
$0
Step‑by‑Step Setup
- create/Log In to Your Account
- Go to paramountplus.com or download the app (iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, Xbox, PlayStation).
- Choose a Subscription
- Select Premium for ad‑free viewing or Essential if you prefer a lower price with ads.
- Link Your TV Provider (Optional)
- If you already have a cable subscription, you can activate CBS Live through the “Live TV” toggle to avoid a separate Paramount+ fee.
- Find the Event
- In the app,use the search bar: type “Kennedy center Honors.”
- Click “Watch Live” when the clock hits 8 PM ET.
- enable Offline Playback (Premium only)
- After the live broadcast, the full ceremony becomes available on‑demand.
- Tap the download icon to watch later without an internet connection.
Best Practices for Paramount+ Streaming
- Internet Speed: Minimum 5 Mbps for HD; 25 Mbps recommended for 4K (if available).
- Device Compatibility: The live stream supports up to 1080p on most devices; 4K is limited to smart tvs and select streaming boxes.
- Audio options: Choose “Stereo” or “Dolby Digital 5.1” in the audio settings for optimal sound during musical performances.
Alternative Ways to Access the Show
- YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or Sling TV – All include CBS in their channel line‑ups. Verify your regional availability before subscribing.
- Local Radio Simulcast – Some markets stream audio of the ceremony on NPR affiliates; check NPR.org for a list of stations.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Viewing Experience
- Test Your Equipment Early – Power on your TV, streaming device, or antenna at least 30 minutes before airtime.
- Update Apps and Firmware – Ensure the CBS and Paramount+ apps are on the latest version; update your TV’s software.
- Disable Background Downloads – Pause large updates on your network to prevent buffering.
- Use a Wired Ethernet Connection – if Wi‑Fi is spotty, a direct cable will reduce latency during live streaming.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Issue
Swift Fix
No picture on CBS channel
Rescan channels; check antenna placement; verify that the channel isn’t blacked out by a parental lock.
Paramount+ buffering
Restart the app; switch to a lower video quality (e.g., 720p); test speed with a speed‑test site.
Authentication errors
Log out of all devices, clear cache, then log back in with correct TV provider credentials.
Audio out of sync
Pause and restart the stream; adjust audio delay settings in your TV’s sound menu.
What to Expect from the Ceremony
- Host: Former President Donald J.Trump (opening monologue and presenter introductions).
- Honorees: Five lifetime achievement recipients spanning music,theater,film,and dance (official list released on the Kennedy center website).
- Performances: Live renditions by top‑rated artists, broadcast in high‑definition with multi‑camera angles.
For the most up‑to‑date schedule and any last‑minute changes, visit the official Kennedy Center page (kennedy-center.org) or follow the event’s live‑tweet feed @KennedyCenter.
where to Watch tonight’s Kennedy Center Honors Live
- Network: CBS (channel 2 in most major markets)
- Streaming Platform: Paramount+ (live TV and on‑demand after the broadcast)
- Air time: 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT on 12/23/2025
How to Access the CBS Broadcast
- Cable or Satellite Subscriber
- Locate your local CBS affiliate (e.g., WCBS‑NY, KPIX‑SF).
- Tune to the listed channel number in your TV guide.
- Antenna Users
- Connect a VHF/UHF indoor or outdoor antenna to your TV.
- Run a channel scan; CBS should appear as channel 2 or the market‑specific virtual channel.
- CBS Website or App (Free with TV Provider Login)
- Visit cbs.com or launch the CBS app on your smart TV, streaming device, or mobile.
- Sign in with your TV provider credentials (e.g., Comcast, DirecTV).
- Select “Live TV” → “CBS” → “Kennedy Center Honors.”
Key Tips for CBS Viewing
- check Time Zone: The show airs at 8 PM ET; adjust for Central, Mountain, or Pacific zones.
- Enable Closed Captions: Click the CC icon on the TV guide or app for accessibility.
- Set a Reminder: Most smart tvs and streaming apps let you schedule a reminder for the start time.
Streaming the Event on Paramount+
| option | What You Get | Cost (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Paramount+ premium | Live CBS stream + full on‑demand library | $12.99 /mo or $119.99 /yr |
| Paramount+ Essential (ad‑supported) | Live CBS stream (ads) + limited library | $4.99 /mo or $49.99 /yr |
| Paramount+ Free Trial | 7‑day trial of Premium features (cancel before billing) | $0 |
Step‑by‑Step Setup
- create/Log In to Your Account
- Go to paramountplus.com or download the app (iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, Xbox, PlayStation).
- Choose a Subscription
- Select Premium for ad‑free viewing or Essential if you prefer a lower price with ads.
- Link Your TV Provider (Optional)
- If you already have a cable subscription, you can activate CBS Live through the “Live TV” toggle to avoid a separate Paramount+ fee.
- Find the Event
- In the app,use the search bar: type “Kennedy center Honors.”
- Click “Watch Live” when the clock hits 8 PM ET.
- enable Offline Playback (Premium only)
- After the live broadcast, the full ceremony becomes available on‑demand.
- Tap the download icon to watch later without an internet connection.
Best Practices for Paramount+ Streaming
- Internet Speed: Minimum 5 Mbps for HD; 25 Mbps recommended for 4K (if available).
- Device Compatibility: The live stream supports up to 1080p on most devices; 4K is limited to smart tvs and select streaming boxes.
- Audio options: Choose “Stereo” or “Dolby Digital 5.1” in the audio settings for optimal sound during musical performances.
Alternative Ways to Access the Show
- YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or Sling TV – All include CBS in their channel line‑ups. Verify your regional availability before subscribing.
- Local Radio Simulcast – Some markets stream audio of the ceremony on NPR affiliates; check NPR.org for a list of stations.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Viewing Experience
- Test Your Equipment Early – Power on your TV, streaming device, or antenna at least 30 minutes before airtime.
- Update Apps and Firmware – Ensure the CBS and Paramount+ apps are on the latest version; update your TV’s software.
- Disable Background Downloads – Pause large updates on your network to prevent buffering.
- Use a Wired Ethernet Connection – if Wi‑Fi is spotty, a direct cable will reduce latency during live streaming.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Issue | Swift Fix |
|---|---|
| No picture on CBS channel | Rescan channels; check antenna placement; verify that the channel isn’t blacked out by a parental lock. |
| Paramount+ buffering | Restart the app; switch to a lower video quality (e.g., 720p); test speed with a speed‑test site. |
| Authentication errors | Log out of all devices, clear cache, then log back in with correct TV provider credentials. |
| Audio out of sync | Pause and restart the stream; adjust audio delay settings in your TV’s sound menu. |
What to Expect from the Ceremony
- Host: Former President Donald J.Trump (opening monologue and presenter introductions).
- Honorees: Five lifetime achievement recipients spanning music,theater,film,and dance (official list released on the Kennedy center website).
- Performances: Live renditions by top‑rated artists, broadcast in high‑definition with multi‑camera angles.
For the most up‑to‑date schedule and any last‑minute changes, visit the official Kennedy Center page (kennedy-center.org) or follow the event’s live‑tweet feed @KennedyCenter.
