U.S. President Donald Trump has appointed Richard Grenell, his former special envoy and intelligence director, as the interim executive director of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The move comes just days after Trump installed himself as chairman of the Center’s board.
Trump’s Vision for the Kennedy Center
Announcing the appointment on Truth Social, Trump stated:
“Ric shares my vision for a Golden Age of American Arts and Culture and will oversee the daily operations of the Center. No more drag shows or other anti-American propaganda—just the best! Welcome to show business, Ric!”
Grenell, who previously served as U.S. ambassador to Germany and acting director of national intelligence, recently played a key role in securing the release of six Americans detained in Venezuela.
Kennedy Center’s Response
Following Trump’s statement, the Kennedy Center emphasized its long-standing collaboration with presidential administrations but noted it had received no official communication from Trump’s team regarding board changes.
Trump’s decision to reshape the board marks a dramatic shift from its current leadership, headed by billionaire David Rubenstein, co-founder of Carlyle Group. Other key members include businessman Anthony Welters and Kennedy Center President Deborah Rutter, who plans to step down later this year.
