Issa Rae Cancels Sold-Out Kennedy Center Event After Trump Is Appointed Chairman
Source: Steven Ferdman / Getty
Issa Rae has decided to cancel her highly anticipated show at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, citing concerns over the recent leadership changes at the institution. In an Instagram post on February 13, the actress and producer explained her reasoning, stating that she felt the Kennedy Center’s values were being compromised under the new leadership of President Donald Trump, who was appointed chair of the board earlier that week.
Rae expressed gratitude for the sold-out event and shared her disappointment, writing, “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.” She assured fans that all tickets would be refunded and thanked them for their understanding. The event, scheduled for March 16, was supposed to be a celebration of community, laughter, and nostalgia, but Rae’s decision follows the Kennedy Center’s controversial leadership shake-up.
In addition to Rae’s cancellation, the Kennedy Center has been under scrutiny after President Trump took charge of the board, replacing longtime chair David M. Rubenstein. The appointment led to the firing of Kennedy Center President Deborah Rutter and the introduction of new board members, including Usha Vance, wife of Vice President J.D. Vance. The changes, which have sparked widespread debate, were detailed in Trump’s Truth Social post on February 7, where he outlined his vision to “make the Kennedy Center GREAT AGAIN.”
Following these shifts, notable figures in the arts community, including musician Ben Folds and TV producer Shonda Rhimes, have resigned from their positions at the institution in protest. Folds stepped down from his role as artistic advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra, while Rhimes also confirmed her resignation from the Kennedy Center’s board. The fallout from these changes continues to reverberate, with many artists questioning the future direction of the cultural landmark.
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