The 2025 Kennedy Center Honors will shine a spotlight on a diverse group of legendary entertainers. This year’s honorees include rock icons Kiss, country superstar George Strait, Hollywood action legend Sylvester Stallone, disco queen Gloria Gaynor, and acclaimed English actor Michael Crawford. The ceremony is set for December 8 in Washington, D.C., marking a memorable evening that celebrates decades of artistic achievement.
For Kiss fans, this recognition carries extra excitement. If all four original members—Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley, and Peter Criss—attend, it will be their first time appearing together since their 2014 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction. The Kennedy Center Honors will not only celebrate their music but also their lasting influence on American culture.
A Diverse Group of Legends
The Kennedy Center is proud to announce our incredible lineup of 2025 Kennedy Center Honorees:
•George Strait (@GeorgeStrait)
•Michael Crawford
•Sylvester Stallone (@TheSlyStallone)
•Gloria Gaynor (@GloriaGaynor)
•Kiss (@Kiss)Congratulations to our 48th Class! pic.twitter.com/y8iWt4U0Lq
— The Kennedy Center (@kencen) August 13, 2025
This year’s Kennedy Center Honors lineup covers multiple genres and eras, showcasing the breadth of American entertainment. George Strait, known as the “King of Country,” has built a career with more than 60 No. 1 hits and an enduring fan base. Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive” remains one of the most iconic disco anthems of all time, while Michael Crawford’s work in musical theater, especially The Phantom of the Opera, has left a lasting mark on the stage.
Sylvester Stallone, beloved for roles in Rocky and Rambo, also joins the esteemed list of recipients. His career spans decades of memorable performances, and his influence reaches beyond film into cultural symbolism. Together, these honorees embody the very mission of the Kennedy Center Honors—celebrating artists who have made indelible contributions to the performing arts.
Kiss Reflects on the Honor
The members of Kiss shared heartfelt statements about receiving the Kennedy Center Honors. Paul Stanley expressed gratitude on behalf of the band’s long legacy, noting that their journey has always been about proving that hard work pays off. Gene Simmons called it “the embodiment of the American dream,” reflecting on his humble beginnings in the Bronx.
According to the Rolling Stone, Ace Frehley described the recognition as “beyond my wildest dreams,” while Peter Criss called it “the greatest honor of our career.” For fans, the possibility of seeing all four members share the stage again adds an extra layer of anticipation to the December ceremony.