LONDON, England – Renowned actor John Lithgow spoke out against the impact of Donald Trump’s involvement in the arts in the United States, particularly at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. Lithgow, honored with the best actor award at the recent Olivier awards, expressed his dismay over Trump’s control over the prestigious arts institution.
The Kennedy Center, a long-standing symbol of bipartisan support for the arts, faced significant changes under Trump’s administration. Lithgow criticized the decision to replace the center’s board members and appoint a new interim leader, Ric Grenell, a loyalist of the president. This move came amid the search for a successor to Deborah Rutter, the outgoing leader who had announced her resignation after serving for 11 years.
Having worked closely with Rutter on an arts commission, Lithgow condemned her abrupt removal from her position despite her planned departure. He emphasized the critical role the arts play in society, especially during times of crisis, such as the ongoing pandemic and the political upheaval at the Kennedy Center.
Notably, Lithgow won the best actor award for his portrayal of Roald Dahl in the play “Giant” at the Royal Court, with a forthcoming production in London’s West End. Reflecting on his deep ties to the UK arts scene, including collaborations with the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre, Lithgow highlighted his lifelong passion for Shakespeare instilled by his father.
In a tumultuous period for the arts in America, Lithgow expressed a mix of concern and determination, noting that adversity often fuels creativity. While acknowledging the current challenges facing the industry, he remained optimistic about the resilience of artists and their ability to inspire change through their work.
Overall, Lithgow’s remarks shed light on the struggles faced by the arts community in the US under the Trump administration, underscoring the importance of preserving artistic integrity and autonomy in times of political turmoil. As the debate over the role of government in the arts continues, voices like Lithgow’s serve as a reminder of the enduring power of creativity and expression in shaping society.