US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris attended their last high-profile appearance together at the 47th Kennedy Center Honors. The event drew big names from film, music, and politics.
David Rubenstein, chair of the Kennedy Center, praised Biden for his 50 years of service to the country. The audience gave Harris a standing ovation, thanking her for becoming the first female vice-president in US history. However, some saw wistfulness in the air as Harris faces an uncertain political future after losing the presidential election.
The ceremony honored lifetime achievement awards to Francis Ford Coppola, Bonnie Raitt, Arturo Sandoval, and the Apollo Theater, among others. Stars from The Godfather and other films paid tribute to Coppola’s work, calling him “my hero” and praising his movies’ impact on their careers. The Grateful Dead also received a tribute, with performers including Dave Matthews and Maggie Rogers celebrating the band’s legacy.
The event brought together celebrities, politicians, and performers, offering a rare intersection of America’s cultural and political worlds. While some called for Donald Trump to attend next year’s ceremony, others expressed hope that he would join. The Kennedy Center Honors will be broadcast on CBS on December 22.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2024/dec/09/biden-and-harris-attend-washington-awards-ceremony-in-one-of-their-last-major-appearances-together