Issa Rae Cancels Sold-Out Kennedy Center Show After Trump’s Takeover

Issa Rae has pulled the plug on her sold-out event at The Kennedy Center, joining a growing list of artists distancing themselves from the institution after Trump was elected chairman.

The Insecure creator and star took to Instagram Stories to announce her decision, telling fans, “Thank you so much for selling out the Kennedy Center for An Evening with Issa Rae. 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.”

Rae assured ticket holders that they would receive refunds, adding, “Thank you so much for understanding, and I hope to see you soon.” Following her announcement, the event page for her show was deleted from the Kennedy Center website.

Rae’s decision comes in response to Trump’s controversial takeover of the Kennedy Center, which has already led to multiple resignations. Shonda Rhimes resigned as treasurer, while Ben Folds and Renée Fleming stepped down from their roles as artistic advisers.

Trump’s election as chairman followed his move to oust Biden-appointed board members, leaving only Trump loyalists in key positions. Traditionally, the Kennedy Center board has maintained bipartisan representation, but with Trump’s latest power move, many in the arts community are speaking out—or cutting ties altogether.