Shonda Rhimes and Friends Walk Away from Kennedy Center

The Kennedy Center, a place known for its art and culture, is going through some big changes. Shonda Rhimes, a well-known writer and producer, has stepped down from the board. This move comes after Donald Trump took control of the center. Rhimes was appointed to the board by President Barack Obama and was one of the key officers. She is not the only one leaving. Ben Folds, a musician, has resigned as artistic adviser of the National Symphony Orchestra. Shortly after, Renée Fleming, a famous opera singer, also announced her departure as artistic adviser at large. Trump has replaced board members appointed by Joe Biden, leaving only his loyalists behind. This has led to Trump becoming the chairman, with Ric Grenell serving as interim president. Before this, Deborah Rutter had already planned to step down as president at the end of the year. Rhimes' decision to leave isn't a shock. She supported Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election. Trump's stance on diversity, equity, and inclusion is well-known, and Rhimes has always been a strong advocate for these values in her work, like the popular Netflix series Bridgerton. The exits of Folds and Rhimes raise questions about the future of the Kennedy Center Honors. This event is one of the biggest entertainment events in D. C. In 2017, during Trump's first year in office, several honorees boycotted a traditional pre-reception at the White House. Trump then chose not to attend any of the ceremonies during his four years in office. Now, with Trump and his allies in control, the executive committee of the board will pick the honorees. The Kennedy Center has a long history of bipartisan representation, but it seems like that might be changing. The future of the center and its events is uncertain, and it's clear that the changes are causing a lot of people to question what's next. The Kennedy Center is a place where art and culture meet, and it's important to think about how these changes might affect that. The future of the Kennedy Center Honors is also up in the air, and it's hard to say what will happen next. The Kennedy Center has always been a place where art and culture meet, and it's important to think about how these changes might affect that. The future of the Kennedy Center Honors is also up in the air, and it's hard to say what will happen next.