Trump draws massive applause as he opens 48th Kennedy Center Honors: ‘Welcome to a very special evening’

WASHINGTON, DC: President Trump returned to the spotlight as host for the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors, which aired on Tuesday, December 23, at 8 pm EST.

Hollywood celebrities erupted in cheers and excitement as Trump took the stage.

This year's Kennedy Center Honors, which was recorded earlier this month, marks Trump's first appearance at the annual event in his two terms in office. 

Hosting the celebration, he departed from past tradition, when presidents would simply sit with the honorees and watch the show.

Donald Trump remarks at the Kennedy Center Honors

In his opening remarks, Trump warmly welcomed the audience, saying, “Thank you very much, everybody. Thank you. A very big hello and welcome to a very special evening, and one of the most important evenings in the American cultural realm.”

He emphasized the significance of the Kennedy Center and the event, noting, “This is something going to be very special, and the Kennedy Center is very special, and we're bringing this building back to life like nobody ever thought was even possible.”

Trump then highlighted the purpose of the evening, stating, “Tonight, we're here to congratulate the Kennedy Center honorees."

He continued, "This is our nation's highest recognition for lifetime achievement in the performing arts, and each of the incredible 2025 Kennedy Center honorees has earned the distinction many, many times over.” 

He praised the honorees as 'really amazing, amazing people' and described them as 'among the greatest artists and actors, performers, musicians, singers, and songwriters ever to walk the face of the Earth.'

Trump also added a personal touch, saying, “I love them all, and I know that America loves them also, and that's why this is such an exciting evening.”

Donald Trump highlights Sylvester Stallone in opening remarks

Trump then turned to honor Stallone, saying, “So, we are going to begin tonight with Sylvester Stallone and some of the fantastic things that he's done.” 

Trump acknowledged his long-standing friendship with Stallone, “Sly, you've been my friend for a long time. You've been a very special friend in so many different ways."

He also joked about their past, "When I needed help, I knew not to go to Sly because I don't think he would have been there for me, but now he would. But after tonight, I think he will.”

Trump concluded his tribute to Stallone with heartfelt congratulations, “And we love you, Sly, and this is a big honor. And congratulations to you and Jennifer and the family. A fantastic family, a fantastic man. Thank you very much, everybody.”

The crowd then broke into enthusiastic applause.