Washington, D.C. – The scheduled performance by Amber Ruffin at the upcoming White House Correspondents’ Dinner has been called off, as announced by the White House Correspondents Association President, Eugene Daniels. In an email to members, Daniels stated that the association’s board had unanimously agreed to forgo a comedic performance at this year’s event. The Emmy-nominated Ruffin, known for her work on “Late Night with Seth Meyers” and “A Black Lady Sketch Show,” was previously announced as the entertainment for the April 26 dinner. However, Daniels emphasized the importance of shifting the focus towards recognizing journalistic achievements and supporting the next generation of journalists amidst the current climate for journalism.
Ruffin, who currently appears on the CNN series “Have I Got News For You,” has been vocal in her criticisms of President Trump. Traditionally, the annual gala serves as an opportunity for media professionals to interact with government officials and celebrities in a more relaxed setting. It typically includes a comedic performance as well as a satirical address from the sitting president, although former President Trump chose to skip the event entirely during his term. Despite this, there was speculation over whether he might attend this year’s dinner, with White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt expressing curiosity over Ruffin’s selection and its potential impact on the event.
Following Michelle Wolf’s controversial performance in 2018, the WHCA decided to forego featuring a comedian the following year. Instead of a comic act, historian Ron Chernow delivered an address at the 2019 dinner. The event was canceled in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic but returned in 2022 with President Biden in attendance. The 2024 dinner, featuring comedian Colin Jost, was overshadowed by protests related to the Israel-Hamas conflict, highlighting the ongoing complexities surrounding the prestigious gathering.
The decision to cancel Ruffin’s performance reflects the association’s aim to maintain a focus on the core values of journalism at a time of significant challenges and changes in the industry. While the absence of a comedic act may alter the tone of the dinner, it underscores the evolving nature of the White House Correspondents’ Dinner and its role in fostering dialogue between the media and those in power. As preparations continue for the upcoming event, the decision regarding entertainment reflects broader discussions within the media community on how best to uphold journalistic integrity and promote inclusivity in a rapidly changing media landscape.