President Donald Trump, now chairman of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, has unveiled the honorees for the 48th annual Kennedy Center Honors. The 2025 lineup features a mix of icons: Sylvester Stallone, Gloria Gaynor, KISS, George Strait, and stage legend Michael Crawford. Trump, who also announced he will host the December ceremony, praised the group as an “exceptional class” of talent.

But one star won’t be joining the celebration. According to The Washington Post, Tom Cruise was invited to accept the honor but declined, citing scheduling conflicts. With Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning just released and multiple projects underway, Cruise’s busy calendar reportedly left no room for the prestigious event. His spokesperson declined to comment further.

Trump highlighted his personal role in the selections, saying he was “about 98% involved” and emphasizing his goal of reshaping the program into a more glamorous, star-studded event. As part of his new leadership, he has vowed to restore the Kennedy Center’s prestige, with insiders even hinting it could one day be renamed the “Trump–Kennedy Center.”

While Cruise’s absence drew attention, others welcomed the honor with open arms. Gloria Gaynor expressed her gratitude, calling the recognition a blessing that allows her to continue inspiring through music. Trump, meanwhile, promised that this year’s ceremony would reflect not only the honorees’ incredible talent but also his vision of reviving one of America’s most cherished cultural institutions.