Issa Rae slammed for scrapping Kennedy Center event after Trump's takeover: 'She's acting childish'

WASHINGTON, DC: Issa Rae abruptly canceled her sold-out event at the John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in protest of President Donald Trump's takeover of the institution.

The decision has sparked heated debate, with critics calling the actress' reaction "childish" and accusing her of lacking professionalism, as reported by The US Sun.

Issa Rae cancels Kennedy Center event as notable figures step down following Donald Trump's takeover 

The 'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse' actress took to Instagram Stories on Thursday, February 13, to write, "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 directed ticket holders to seek refunds. 

Rae isn’t alone in her stance. Several prominent figures in the entertainment industry have distanced themselves from the Kennedy Center following Trump’s takeover.

The president dismissed Biden-appointed board members and replaced them with his own allies, leading to an immediate shift in leadership. Longtime president Deborah Rutter was removed, and former diplomat Richard Grenell was installed as interim executive director.

Musician Ben Folds stepped down as the artistic advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra, calling the situation "not for me." He expressed gratitude for his eight years in the role but made it clear he wouldn't continue under the new leadership. 

"It's been a wonderful 8 years working with Kennedy Center President Deb Rutter, fellow artistic advisor Renee Fleming, and the entire NSO staff, encouraging thousands of fresh new audiences to appreciate symphonic music. Mostly, and above all, I will miss the musicians of our nation's symphony orchestra just the best!" Folds wrote in his statement. 

Fellow artistic advisor and opera singer Renee Fleming also resigned, as did TV producer and 'Grey's Anatomy' creator Shonda Rhimes.

Trump was elected chairman of the Kennedy Center by his newly constituted board on Wednesday. 

In a statement shared on his Truth Social platform, the president wrote, "President Donald J Trump was just unanimously elected Chairman of the Board of the prestigious Kennedy Center in Washington, DC."

"It is a Great Honor to be Chairman of The Kennedy Center, especially with this amazing Board of Trustees. We will make The Kennedy Center a very special and exciting place!" the 78-year-old added. 

Internet slams Issa Rae over decision to cancel sold-out Kennedy Center event following Donald Trump's takeover

Issa Rae's move to cancel her sold-out "An Evening with Issa Rae" show sparked backlash online, with many saying that she was overreacting. 

One wrote, "We can get Kid Rock to fill in. Will be a better show," and another said, "The only ones she's hurting are her ticket holders."

A person expressed frustration with celebrities allowing personal beliefs to impact performances, saying, "Glad she canceled, don’t need entertainers who let their personalities get in the way of their performance. Put a trained seal in her time slot, and it will be just as good."

"Expect to see more cancellations in the future," one remarked, with another claiming, "She must not know that the sitting POTUS is always the Honorary Chairman at the Kennedy Center. Everyone is getting WAY too sensitive and overreacting. Get over it."

"She is acting childish," an individual declared, while one more added, "Such a professional. The Show Must Go On… unless the Star (who most of us never heard of) throws a hissy fit and decides she is much more important than her fans. Good riddance. Stand on the sidewalk and ask strangers for hugs."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.