‘Hamilton’ Cancels 2026 Kennedy Center Shows Over Trump-Backed Leadership Changes

Producers Lin-Manuel Miranda and Jeffrey Seller cite concerns over politicization under President Trump’s revamped board leadership.

The producers of the Broadway hit 'Hamilton' have canceled plans to perform at the Kennedy Center in 2026, citing objections to leadership changes under President Trump.
Lin-Manuel Miranda and Jeffrey Seller expressed concerns about the direction of the Kennedy Center under Trump-appointed board members and interim executive director Ric Grenell.
The decision follows a broader debate over the Kennedy Center’s role in representing diverse cultural and political values in the arts.
Critics, including Grenell, argue that the cancellation alienates audiences and politicizes the arts, which should be accessible to all Americans regardless of political affiliation.
The Kennedy Center’s new leadership has defended its vision, emphasizing the importance of programming that appeals to a wide audience while maintaining financial viability.