Overview

• Katie Couric criticized the Kennedy Center on Instagram as “a disgrace,” reacting to a post about an opera event under its new leadership.
• Kennedy Center president Richard Grenell replied that no shows were canceled by the institution and said performers withdrew over politics, adding that “everyone is welcome.”
• The back-and-forth continued Monday as the Kennedy Center’s account reposted coverage of the exchange and addressed “Mrs. Couric,” prompting her correction to “Ms.,” while Grenell amplified the spat on X with limited engagement noted by TheWrap.
• Trump assumed control of the Kennedy Center earlier this year, installed himself as chairman, replaced 14 board members, and pledged to end what he calls “woke programming.”
• Officials tout a season centered on popular, family-friendly fare and cite strong Les Misérables sales and renewed donor interest, as Grenell alleges his team inherited zero cash and crisis-level deferred maintenance.