President Trump brushed off a cast boycott during his Kennedy Center appearance at “Les Misérables,” declaring the $10 million fundraiser a success despite sharp cultural backlash.
At a Glance
- Several “Les Misérables” cast members refused to perform during Trump’s visit, citing political objections
- Trump dismissed the boycott, stating, “I couldn’t care less,” while praising his economic record
- Earlier this year, Trump appointed himself Chairman of the Kennedy Center and replaced board members
- Subscription sales have reportedly plummeted since Trump’s leadership overhaul
- Audience reactions were divided between cheers and boos as drag protestors and Trump allies clashed
Cultural Showdown at Center Stage
President Trump’s appearance at a performance of “Les Misérables” at the Kennedy Center sparked immediate controversy as several cast members staged a boycott. Understudies filled the gaps, but the political tone was unmistakable. Trump, joined by First Lady Melania and Vice President JD Vance, dismissed the protest out of hand.
“I couldn’t care less, honestly, I couldn’t,” Trump told reporters. “All I do is run the country well.” He touted his administration’s economic performance, insisting, “There’s no inflation. People are happy. People are wealthy.”
Watch a report: Trump attends Les Misérables amid cast boycott
Despite vocal objections inside and outside the venue, the night raised over $10 million for the institution. Yet the President’s continued grip on the cultural landmark is stirring unease across the artistic community.
Trump’s Cultural Takeover
The performance clash stems from deeper changes: in February, Trump installed loyalists to the Kennedy Center’s board and named himself chairman. This followed his pledge to eliminate what he called “woke” programming. Richard Grenell, now President of the Center, publicly criticized the boycott and hinted at naming protesting actors.
Trump’s restructuring has not been without consequence. According to reports, subscription sales have dropped, and high-profile performers are distancing themselves from the venue. Yet Trump remains confident: “We want to bring it back better than ever,” he said before the show.
Reactions on Stage and in the Streets
Audience reaction was sharply divided. Inside the theater, boos mixed with chants of “USA! USA!” as Trump entered. Outside, drag performers—some dressed in costume—staged a counter-protest against Trump’s leadership of the Kennedy Center. Their appearance was met with both applause and heckling from the crowd.
Watch the protest: Drag artists protest Trump’s Kennedy Center overhaul
Trump, who reportedly has seen “Les Misérables” multiple times, joked about identifying with either Jean Valjean or Javert. The evening’s themes of resistance and justice resonated uneasily amid the real-world tensions surrounding the event.
Still, as national protests over immigration and social policy continue, Trump reaffirmed his stance: “We are going to have law and order in our country.”
