Issa Rae cancels sold-out Kennedy Center after Trump takeover
Share and Follow


(The Hill) Issa Rae is canceling her sold-out show at the Kennedy Center as the fallout for the Washington institution deepens after President Trump named himself chairman of its board.

“Thank you so much for selling out the Kennedy Center for ‘An Evening With [Me,]’ Rae wrote in a message to her “D.C. Fam” in a Thursday Instagram Story post.

“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,” the Emmy-nominated “Insecure” actor said.

“All tickets will be refunded. Thank you so much for understanding and I hope to see you soon,” Rae told her more than 4 million Instagram followers.

Rae nixing her appearance, originally scheduled for March 16, is the first instance of a high-profile event canceled in the wake of Trump’s dramatic overhaul of the Kennedy Center. 

Last week, the president announced he was replacing several members of the performing arts institution’s board of trustees and was designating himself as its chairman. He later described the Kennedy Center as too “woke.”

“We took over the Kennedy Center. We didn’t like what they were showing,” Trump said. 

On Wednesday, the newly picked board filled with allies of the commander in chief elected Trump as its chair. 

Several stars serving in various roles at the Kennedy Center including Ben Folds, Shonda Rhimes and Renée Fleming announced they were leaving after Trump’s move. 

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
The sky-high apartment building in Southern city  that bucks the trend

Defying Gravity: The Remarkable Sky-High Apartment Tower Transforming Southern City Living

Houston’s skyline, already a testament to architectural ambition, has welcomed a striking…
How sad Harry can't allow his children to join this happy band

Why Prince Harry’s Kids Are Missing Out on This Joyful Experience

The mother of one of my oldest friends was a constant presence…
Influencer Real Tarzann seriously injured in skydiving wreck

Influencer Real Tarzann Sustains Serious Injuries in Skydiving Accident

Wildlife influencer Mike Holston, known to his followers as “The Real Tarzann,”…
Our Chicago: Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve With Ryan Seacrest Comes To Chicago

Chicago Takes Center Stage: Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest Debuts in the Windy City

For the first time ever, “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with…
Russia strikes Ukraine ahead of Trump-Zelensky meeting

Russia’s Aggressive Move: Airstrikes in Ukraine Set the Stage for High-Stakes Trump-Zelensky Summit

In a series of early morning strikes on Ukraine, Russia has left…
MAGA erupts over Zohran Mamdani's choice for FDNY chief

Controversy Sparks as Zohran Mamdani’s FDNY Chief Pick Faces Backlash from MAGA Supporters

Incoming New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has ignited a wave of…
Vehicle drives into crowd in East Hollywood, injuring more than 20

Tragic Midair Helicopter Collision in New Jersey: One Fatality, Another Injured

A harrowing scene unfolded in Hammonton, New Jersey, where two helicopters collided…
Diff'rent Strokes child star Melanie Watson dies at 57

Remembering Melanie Watson: ‘Diff’rent Strokes’ Star Passes Away at 57

Melanie Watson, a former child star from the beloved series Diff’rent Strokes,…