In a moment of career-defining recognition, KISS has been named one of this year’s recipients of the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors. The announcement, made during a press conference hosted by U.S. President Donald Trump at the Kennedy Center, marks a major milestone for the legendary rock band known for decades of influence on American culture.
This is the first Kennedy Center Honors ceremony under President Trump’s leadership as chairman of the board. Alongside KISS, honorees include country icon George Strait, actor Sylvester Stallone, disco legend Gloria Gaynor, and actor-singer Michael Crawford.
Gene Simmons: “KISS is the embodiment of the American Dream”
Each of the original KISS members has publicly shared their reaction to the honor, emphasizing the emotional and cultural weight of the moment.
Simmons told TMZ:
“KISS is the embodiment of the American Dream. We are deeply honored to receive the Kennedy Center Honor.”
Paul Stanley: “All things are possible”
Paul Stanley reflected on the band’s journey and how the award represents the culmination of decades of dedication and resilience:
“From our earliest days, KISS has embodied the American ideal that all things are possible and that hard work pays off. The prestige of the Kennedy Center Honors cannot be overstated and I accept this on behalf of the long legacy of KISS and all of the band members who helped create our iconic band.”
Frehley and Criss: “A dream come true” and “the greatest honor”
Ace Frehley expressed sincere gratitude, calling the recognition a dream realized:
“A dream come true that I never thought would materialize.”
Peter Criss echoed that emotion:
“I feel so blessed. This is the greatest honor of our career.”
Trump on the Honors: “Outstanding people, an outstanding group”
During the press conference, President Trump praised the diversity and cultural importance of the 2025 honorees:
“The 48th Kennedy Center honorees are outstanding people, an outstanding group — incredible,” Trump stated. “We can’t wait to celebrate the Kennedy Center Honors.”
In addition to hosting the event, Trump will also produce the show, which has long stood as one of the most prestigious acknowledgments of excellence in the American performing arts.
A Legacy of Cultural Impact
KISS has long been recognized not just for their music, but for their showmanship, innovation, and ability to connect across generations. From their 1970s breakthrough to their recent farewell tour, the band has left an indelible mark on rock and roll—and American entertainment as a whole.
Now, with the Kennedy Center Honor, their contributions have been cemented at the highest level of cultural acknowledgment in the United States.
