Shonda Rhimes Resigns From Kennedy Center Board After Trump’s Takeover

Shonda Rhimes Resigns From Kennedy Center Board After Trump’s Takeover

Shonda Rhimes has resigned from the Kennedy Center’s board following Donald Trump’s takeover of the renowned performing arts institution.

A spokesperson for Shonda Rhimes confirmed the move, stating,

“Please be advised that as of today, Shonda Rhimes has resigned from the board of the Kennedy Center.”

Shonda Rhimes, appointed by President Barack Obama, had been serving as treasurer.

This decision comes amid a broader purge led by Donald Trump, who ousted board members appointed by President Joe Biden.

The reshuffling has left Donald Trump loyalists in charge, with Trump himself now voted in as chairman. His ally, Ric Grenell, is serving as interim president.

Rhimes’ departure was expected, given her support for Kamala Harris in the 2024 election and her embrace of diversity, equity, and inclusion—a value central to her acclaimed work on “Bridgerton.” The resignations of Rhimes and Ben Folds raise questions about the future of the Kennedy Center Honors, traditionally a bipartisan event.