The Kennedy Center has announced its intention to file a $1 million lawsuit against renowned jazz artist Chuck Redd. This decision follows Redd's abrupt cancellation of his annual Christmas Eve performance at the iconic performing arts center in Washington, D.C. The news, first reported by the Associated Press, has sparked considerable discussion regarding the intersection of politics and the arts.
Redd's decision to withdraw from the concert came just days after the name of former President Donald Trump was prominently displayed on the Kennedy Center's exterior. In an email to NPR on Saturday, Kennedy Center spokesperson Roma Daravi expressed that Redd's actions represent a significant disservice to the arts community. “Any artist canceling their show at the Trump Kennedy Center over political differences isn't courageous or principled—they are selfish, intolerant, and have failed to meet the basic duty of a public artist: to perform for all people,” she stated.
Chuck Redd has been an integral part of the Kennedy Center's cultural offerings for many years, showcasing his talents on the drums and vibraphone. As the host of the center's Christmas Jazz Jam, he has become a beloved figure among audiences. However, the recent political climate and the name change of the venue have led him to reassess his participation. “When I saw the name change on the Kennedy Center website and then hours later on the building, I chose to cancel our concert,” Redd told the AP.
Kennedy Center President Richard Grenell condemned Redd's decision in a sharply worded letter, criticizing the cancellation as a political stunt. The letter, which was shared with NPR, stated, “Regrettably, your action surrenders to the sad bullying tactics employed by certain elements on the left, who have sought to intimidate artists into boycotting performances at our national cultural center.”
Grenell took to X to further express his discontent, asserting, “The left is boycotting the Arts because Trump is supporting the Arts. But we will not let them cancel shows without consequences. The Arts are for everyone - and the Left is mad about it.”
The Kennedy Center has faced a wave of cancellations and withdrawals from artists since Trump assumed leadership roles within the institution. Notable performances have been affected, including the cancellation of Hamilton's planned run in 2026 and appearances by prominent figures like actor and producer Issa Rae and folk musician Rhiannon Giddens, who opted to relocate her concert to another venue.
Following the recent name change, which now reads “The Donald J. Trump and The John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts,” there has been significant backlash from Democratic lawmakers. Ohio Representative Joyce Beatty, who is an ex-officio member of the Kennedy Center Board, has filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, arguing that changing the name of a memorial honoring President John F. Kennedy requires congressional approval.
In light of these events, Daravi reiterated the Kennedy Center's mission, stating, “Art is a shared cultural experience meant to unite, not exclude. The Trump Kennedy Center is a true bipartisan institution that welcomes artists and patrons from all backgrounds—great art transcends politics, and America's cultural center remains committed to presenting popular programming that inspires and resonates with all audiences.”
As the Kennedy Center prepares to move forward with its lawsuit against Redd after the holidays, the ongoing discourse surrounding art, politics, and public expression continues to evolve.