The latest cohort of Kennedy Center honorees, featuring comedian Billy Crystal and actor Queen Latifah, were celebrated on Sunday night at a star-studded event recognizing their lifetime achievements in arts and entertainment.
The distinguished group, which also includes opera singer Renée Fleming, music star Barry Gibb, and prolific hitmaker Dionne Warwick, was honored at a black-tie gala. Each honoree received personalized tributes, including surprise appearances and performances that are traditionally kept secret from the honorees themselves.
President Joe Biden extended a welcome to the honorees at the White House prior to the event, emphasizing that the performing arts “reflect who we are as Americans and as human beings
The Kennedy Center honorees, including comedian Billy Crystal and actor Queen Latifah, were praised by President Joe Biden at a star-studded event celebrating their lifetime achievements in arts and entertainment. Biden highlighted that the honorees have shaped how Americans see themselves, each other, and the world through their contributions to the performing arts.
The gala, held at the Kennedy Center, featured surprise appearances and performances for each honoree. The event began with Gloria Estefan leading a dance performance to her hit song “Get On Your Feet.” The honorees also received tributes from fellow artists and colleagues.
Billy Crystal, known for his roles in “When Harry Met Sally…” and “The Princess Bride,” was honored with testimonials from figures like Meg Ryan, Whoopi Goldberg, and Robert DeNiro. Lin-Manuel Miranda performed an original song in Crystal’s honor.
Dionne Warwick, recognized for her impact on music in the 1960s, received a tribute featuring performances by Cynthia Erivo and Gladys Knight. Warwick’s signature hit, “I Say a Little Prayer,” was performed by Gladys Knight.
Renée Fleming, a renowned soprano, had testimonials from Christine Baranski and Sigourney Weaver. Opera singers performed one of Fleming’s signature tunes, “Song to the Moon” from Antonín Dvořák’s opera “Rusalka.”
Queen Latifah, a trailblazer in rap and entertainment, was honored with performances by female rappers Yo-Yo, MC Lyte, and Monie Love. Missy Elliott spoke about the cultural significance of Latifah’s stage name.
Barry Gibb, a member of the Bee Gees, was celebrated with performances by Little Big Town, Michael Bublé, Ben Platt, and Ariana DeBose, who closed the show with a greatest hits medley.
The 2023 Kennedy Center Honors ceremony will be broadcast on December 27 on CBS.
