Kennedy Center President Resigns After Tumultuous Year

Richard Grenell, a Trump ally, is leaving the arts institution as it prepares for a major renovation.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 8:53pm

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Richard Grenell, a close ally of former President Trump, is stepping down as president of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts after a turbulent year that saw an exodus of artists and audiences from the Washington cultural institution. The center is set to close for a two-year renovation on July 4.

Why it matters

Grenell's tenure at the Kennedy Center was marked by controversy, as he was installed by Trump and made changes that led to high-profile cancellations and departures of artists and performances. His resignation comes as the center prepares for a major renovation, signaling a potential shift in direction for the institution.

The details

Grenell, the former ambassador to Germany, was appointed by Trump to lead the Kennedy Center. During his time there, the center faced an exodus of artists and audiences, with high-profile acts like composer Philip Glass, banjo player Béla Fleck, and the San Francisco Ballet canceling performances. Trump also inserted his own name into the center's title as part of his efforts to put his imprint on the institution and its programming.

  • Grenell was appointed by President Trump to lead the Kennedy Center.
  • The Kennedy Center is set to close for a two-year renovation on July 4, 2026.

The players

Richard Grenell

The former ambassador to Germany who was appointed by President Trump to lead the Kennedy Center.

Donald Trump

The former president who appointed Grenell to lead the Kennedy Center and inserted his own name into the institution's title.

Matt Floca

The vice president of facilities operations at the Kennedy Center, who will replace Grenell as the new president.

Philip Glass

A renowned composer who canceled a performance at the Kennedy Center during Grenell's tenure.

Béla Fleck

A Grammy-winning banjo player who canceled a performance at the Kennedy Center during Grenell's tenure.

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What they’re saying

“'Ric Grenell has done an excellent job in helping to coordinate various elements of the Center during the transition period, and I want to thank him for the outstanding work he has done.'”

— Donald Trump (Twitter)

What’s next

The Kennedy Center will close for a two-year renovation on July 4, 2026, marking a new chapter for the institution.

The takeaway

Grenell's departure from the Kennedy Center signals a potential shift in direction for the institution, as it prepares for a major renovation and a new president takes over. The controversy surrounding Grenell's tenure highlights the challenges cultural institutions can face when political appointees try to shape their programming and operations.