Issa Rae Cancels Kennedy Center Show, Citing Values Conflict Following Trump’s Involvement

In a move that has reverberated throughout the arts and entertainment community, Issa Rae, the acclaimed actress, writer, and producer, has canceled her scheduled appearance at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Rae cited a conflict with the institution’s values as the primary reason for her decision, which came shortly after former President Donald Trump’s increased involvement with the Kennedy Center.

Rae’s Announcement and Rationale

Rae, known for her groundbreaking work on the HBO series “Insecure” and her role as President Barbie in the 2023 film “Barbie,” announced the cancellation of “An Evening with Issa Rae” via her Instagram Stories on Thursday, February 13, 2025. She expressed gratitude to her fans for their enthusiastic support, noting that the show had sold out. However, she explained that she could no longer proceed with the event due to her concerns about the direction the Kennedy Center was taking.

“Unfortunately, due to what I believe to be an infringement on the values of an institution that has faithfully celebrated artists of all backgrounds through all mediums, I’ve decided to cancel my appearance at this venue,” Rae wrote. She assured ticketholders that they would receive full refunds and expressed her hope to see them soon.

The one-night-only event, originally scheduled for March 16, 2025, was promoted as a “night of cozy ambience, big laughs, and all the nostalgic feels,” promising a “night of connection with your community in a vibrant atmosphere.” Rae’s cancellation has undoubtedly disappointed many who were looking forward to the event.

Trump’s Influence and Kennedy Center Leadership Changes

Rae’s decision appears to be directly linked to the recent changes in leadership and direction at the Kennedy Center, spearheaded by former President Donald Trump. On February 12, 2025, The New York Times reported that Deborah Rutter, who had served as the Kennedy Center’s president since 2014, had been removed from her position. Richard Grenell was appointed as the interim president, while Trump himself replaced David M. Rubenstein as the chairman of the Kennedy Center.

Trump had previously expressed his intentions for the Kennedy Center on his social media platform, Truth Social, on February 7, 2025. “At my direction, we are going to make the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., GREAT AGAIN,” he wrote. He further stated that he would “immediately terminate multiple individuals from the Board of Trustees, including the Chairman, who do not share our Vision for a Golden Age in Arts and Culture.”

The Kennedy Center responded to Trump’s announcement on February 8, 2025, stating that they had “received no official communications from the White House.” The statement also clarified that the chair of the board of trustees is appointed by the Center’s board members and that while a new administration could replace board members, it would be the first time such action had been taken.

Other Prominent Figures Resign in Protest

Issa Rae is not the only prominent figure in the arts and entertainment world to express concerns about the changes at the Kennedy Center. Musician Ben Folds announced his resignation from his position as artistic advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.

“Given the developments at the Kennedy Center, effective today I am resigning as artistic advisor to the NSO. Not for me,” Folds wrote in a statement on Instagram. He acknowledged his positive experiences working with Kennedy Center President Deb Rutter, fellow artistic advisor Renee Fleming, and the NSO staff, but ultimately felt that he could no longer align himself with the institution’s new direction.

Shonda Rhimes, the acclaimed creator of “Grey’s Anatomy” and other successful television shows, has also resigned from her role as Kennedy Center treasurer. A spokesperson for Rhimes confirmed her resignation to PEOPLE on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.

The Implications of These Actions

The decisions of Issa Rae, Ben Folds, and Shonda Rhimes to disassociate themselves from the Kennedy Center highlight the deep divisions and concerns within the arts community regarding the institution’s future. These individuals, all highly respected and influential in their respective fields, are sending a clear message that they do not support the direction in which the Kennedy Center is headed under its new leadership.

Their actions raise questions about the role of art and culture in society and the importance of maintaining artistic integrity and independence. The Kennedy Center, as a national cultural institution, is expected to represent and celebrate the diversity of American artistic expression. The recent changes have led to concerns that the institution may become more politically aligned, potentially compromising its ability to serve as a platform for all voices and perspectives.

The Kennedy Center’s Response

As of now, the Kennedy Center has not issued a comprehensive statement addressing the concerns raised by Issa Rae, Ben Folds, Shonda Rhimes, and others. The institution’s initial response to Trump’s announcement focused on clarifying the process for appointing board members and emphasizing that it had not received official communication from the White House.

It remains to be seen how the Kennedy Center will respond to the growing criticism and whether it will take steps to address the concerns of artists and members of the public. The institution’s future direction and its ability to maintain its reputation as a leading cultural center will depend on its ability to navigate these challenges and reaffirm its commitment to artistic excellence and inclusivity.

The Broader Context

The controversy surrounding the Kennedy Center is part of a broader trend of increasing political polarization and the politicization of cultural institutions. In recent years, there have been numerous instances of artists, performers, and cultural organizations facing pressure to align themselves with specific political ideologies or agendas.

This trend raises fundamental questions about the role of art in society and the importance of protecting artistic freedom and independence. Art has the power to challenge, provoke, and inspire, and it is essential that artists are free to express themselves without fear of censorship or reprisal.

The situation at the Kennedy Center serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in safeguarding artistic freedom and ensuring that cultural institutions remain open and accessible to all. It also highlights the need for ongoing dialogue and engagement between artists, policymakers, and the public to ensure that art continues to play a vital role in shaping our society.

Conclusion

Issa Rae’s decision to cancel her Kennedy Center show, along with the resignations of Ben Folds and Shonda Rhimes, reflects a growing unease within the arts community regarding the direction of the institution under its new leadership. These actions underscore the importance of upholding artistic values, promoting inclusivity, and safeguarding the independence of cultural institutions. As the Kennedy Center navigates these challenges, it is crucial that it prioritizes its commitment to artistic excellence and its role as a platform for diverse voices and perspectives. The future of the Kennedy Center, and indeed the broader cultural landscape, depends on it.