Overview
- Longtime host Chuck Redd canceled the 20‑year Christmas Eve Jazz Jam after the Center’s site and facade were updated on Dec. 19 to add President Donald Trump’s name.
- Kennedy Center president Richard Grenell, in a letter shared with the Associated Press, called the cancellation a political stunt and said he would seek $1 million in damages.
- Rep. Joyce Beatty filed a federal lawsuit arguing the board exceeded its authority in renaming the congressionally designated memorial and says she was muted during the vote she disputes was unanimous.
- This year’s pre‑taped Honors telecast averaged about 2.65 million viewers, roughly 35% fewer than 2024, as CBS told staff to use the venue’s original name, noting that formal changes require congressional action.
- South Park writer Toby Morton revealed he bought trumpkennedycenter.org and .com in August for satirical use, while Trump showcased potential marble armrests as part of renovation plans at the newly branded venue.