Shonda Rhimes Steps Down From Kennedy Center Board Following Donald Trump Takeover

Shonda Rhimes has stepped down from the Kennedy Center board following Donald Trump’s takeover of the institution. A spokesperson for the writer-producer confirmed her resignation, ending her tenure as treasurer. Rhimes, appointed by Barack Obama, was among the board officers before her departure.

Her exit follows Ben Folds’ resignation as artistic adviser of the National Symphony Orchestra earlier in the day. These moves come after Trump removed Biden-appointed board members, consolidating power among his loyalists and securing the chairman role for himself. Former U.S. ambassador Ric Grenell now serves as interim president, replacing Deborah Rutter, who had previously announced plans to step down at the end of the year.

Rhimes' departure is unsurprising given her political affiliations—she supported Kamala Harris in the 2024 election and has championed diversity, equity, and inclusion in projects like Netflix’s Bridgerton. Trump’s stance against such initiatives adds another layer to the shake-up.

With Folds and Rhimes gone, questions loom over the future of the Kennedy Center Honors, one of Washington, D.C.’s most prestigious entertainment events. During Trump’s first term, honorees boycotted White House celebrations, leading him to skip the ceremonies altogether. Now, with his allies controlling honoree selections, the event’s direction remains uncertain.