Richard Grenell, a close ally of former President Donald Trump, is leaving his position as CEO of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts after just over a year in charge. His departure comes amid criticism and turmoil at the institution, which was criticized for its shift towards MAGA politics.
Trump appointed Grenell to lead the center, part of a broader leadership overhaul following his return to office. However, Grenell’s tenure has been marred by staff departures, artist cancellations, and plummeting ticket sales. The center’s largest performance venues saw a significant decline in ticket sales, while Senate Democrats launched an investigation into its spending practices.
Grenell had defended his management, claiming that the center needed structural and operational changes to improve its finances. However, critics argue that these changes were not transparent or effective. Trump also claimed that the center was in disrepair, citing issues with broken elevators, rat infestations, and crumbling concrete.
Grenell’s successor, Floca, will oversee the planned reconstruction project at the Kennedy Center. The new leadership hopes to bring stability back to the institution before its closure. While some staff members were cautiously optimistic about the change, others expressed concerns about the center’s future under the new leadership.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/2026/03/13/kennedy-center-richard-grenell-resigns