Watch Members of the Legendary Rock Band KISS Speak Out After Being Awarded Kennedy Center Honors by Donald Trump

Recognition Comes Despite Past Tension

Earlier this year, rock icons KISS were named among the recipients of the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors — a top award celebrating lifetime contributions to the performing arts. The announcement surprised many, given that several band members had criticized Trump in the past. Still, the band accepted the honor and issued public statements reflecting their pride.

Frontman Paul Stanley — long a symbol of KISS’s bold image — said: “From our earliest days, KISS has embodied the American ideal that all things are possible and that hard work pays off.” He added that the band accepts the award “on behalf of the long legacy of KISS and all of the band members who helped create our iconic band.”

Bassist‑singer Gene Simmons echoed the sentiment, stating: “KISS is the embodiment of the American dream. We are deeply honored to receive the Kennedy Center Honor.” Meanwhile drummer Peter Criss called it “the greatest honor of our career,” and guitarist Ace Frehley described it as “a dream come true that I never thought would materialize.”

Bittersweet Context: Loss and Legacy

The honor comes mere weeks after the death of Ace Frehley’s longtime bandmate, highlighting a bittersweet moment for the group. Some fans expressed doubts over the decision, given past public disagreements. Many questioned how KISS could accept a government‑linked award amidst political tension, while others were only focused on recognizing the band’s decades‑long impact on rock music.

Inside the band’s camp, the focus remained on legacy and music. For KISS, the award symbolizes a closing of a long, loud chapter — one filled with stadium shows, face paint, and fans worldwide — and recognition of their endurance in rock history. The group emphasized that this honor represents not just individual members but the collective effort behind decades of touring, recordings, and cultural imprint.

Watch the interview below:

Mixed Reactions and Public Debate

Despite the band’s statements, critics pointed out the political complexity of the moment. Accepting the honor from Trump raised eyebrows given previous comments by some members denouncing him. But KISS downplayed that history, instead focusing on the symbolism of their past and the opportunity for recognition by a national institution.

Fans also remain split. Some praised the band for embracing recognition of their long career. Others felt uneasy over the political connections of the award. Still, for many listeners, the core issue boiled down to music — whether KISS’s legacy stands regardless of who hands them the medal. Their reaction seemed to say yes.