Hamilton Cancels Kennedy Center Performance, Sparks Political Backlash

The Kennedy Center's upcoming production of 'Hamilton' has been canceled, a decision criticized by Republican officials as a politically motivated move following President Trump's takeover of the institution. Lin-Manuel Miranda and producer Jeffrey Seller cited a 'new culture' imposed by the Kennedy Center's leadership, arguing they could not in good conscience participate in a politicized environment. Ric Grenell, named interim executive director by Trump, accused them of conducting a 'publicity stunt' against Republican audiences. Seller described the cancellation as a 'business decision' to protect their staff, noting that the Kennedy Center has become untrustworthy under Trump’s leadership. Other artists, including Rhiannon Giddens and Issa Rae, have also withdrawn from scheduled performances in protest of the changes at the Kennedy Center. The canceled production was slated to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence in 2026.