A judge in Washington has instructed the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts to compensate jazz artist Chuck Redd with over $250,000 in legal fees. The decision follows the dismissal of a lawsuit by the center against Redd for breach of contract. In 2025, Redd, a renowned American drummer and vibraphonist, withdrew from his traditional role as host of the center’s annual free Christmas Eve concert. This was in response to the controversial addition of Donald Trump’s name to the building’s exterior.
Redd’s attorney, Lisa J. Banks, stated to CBC News that no individual should have to endure baseless and politically motivated lawsuits like the one filed by the Trump Administration against Redd. Redd had been a long-time host and performer at the Christmas Eve concerts, but he pulled out of the event last year after Trump’s name was prominently displayed on the building.
Following Redd’s withdrawal, the Kennedy Center threatened legal action, claiming his decision was intolerant and costly to the organization. They sought $1 million in damages but the lawsuit was later dismissed by a Washington judge for failing to present a valid breach of contract claim.
A federal judge ruled in May that Trump’s name had been unlawfully added to the Kennedy Center, stemming from conflicts initiated when Trump assumed control of the center by dismissing its chairperson, David Rubinstein, in February. Since then, various figures in the arts and culture sector have distanced themselves from the center or canceled appearances.
The letters spelling out Trump’s name on the Kennedy Center facade have been removed, with a tarp covering the scaffolding. The center confirmed the removal of Trump’s name in June. The Kennedy Center plans to appeal the judge’s decision, while Redd’s lawyers have supported the ruling, denouncing the center’s attempt to silence opposition to the name change. The Kennedy Center is a prominent venue hosting over 2,000 events annually and serving as the official home to the National Symphony Orchestra and the Washington National Opera.