The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is set to honor the exceptional contributions of Queen Latifah, Dionne Warwick, and Barry Gibb of the Bee Gees at the 46th Kennedy Center Honors later this year. The illustrious awards class this year also includes Billy Crystal and opera virtuoso Renée Fleming. The awards ceremony, held in Washington, D.C., will be broadcast on CBS and Paramount+ on December 3, with 2017 honoree Gloria Estefan serving as the host.
Upon her selection for the esteemed cultural achievement award, Queen Latifah shared her sentiments:
The road we embarked on years ago was riddled with rejection. We were constantly told ‘No.’ No, you can’t leave New Jersey. No, you can’t rap and sing. No, singers can’t transition into acting. No, actors can’t also produce. To now be acknowledged among such a diverse and talented group is beyond my wildest dreams, not just for me and my team, but for our entire community.
Gibb, who grew up in England and Australia, also shared his heartfelt appreciation for being recognized by the Kennedy Center:
This honor is truly overwhelming! It’s challenging to feel immense pride yet remain humble. This moment is one of the most extraordinary in my life, a treasure I will forever hold dear. Reflecting on our humble beginnings in Redcliffe, Queensland, over 50 years ago, I could never have anticipated such a moment in my life. The Kennedy Center Honors is an aspiration many entertain but hardly dare to believe could come to fruition. It’s something I have often pondered but never believed could materialize. My deepest gratitude to all those who turned this dream into reality. I dearly wish my brothers were here to partake in this momentous occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Kennedy Center Honors
Who are the honorees for the 46th Kennedy Center Honors?
The 46th Kennedy Center Honors will be recognizing Queen Latifah, Dionne Warwick, and Barry Gibb of the Bee Gees for their significant contributions to the arts. Billy Crystal and Renée Fleming are also included in this year’s awards class.
When and where will the Kennedy Center Honors be held?
The Kennedy Center Honors will take place in Washington, D.C., and it will be broadcast on CBS and Paramount+ on December 3.
Who is the host for this year’s Kennedy Center Honors?
The host for this year’s Kennedy Center Honors is Gloria Estefan, who was a honoree herself in 2017.
What were Queen Latifah’s and Barry Gibb’s reactions to being selected for the honors?
Both Queen Latifah and Barry Gibb expressed their gratitude and excitement over the recognition. Latifah reflected on the struggles she faced in her early career, while Gibb spoke about the significance of this honor in his life, expressing his wish that his brothers could have shared the moment with him.
More about Kennedy Center Honors
- Kennedy Center Honors
- Queen Latifah’s Career
- Dionne Warwick’s Music Journey
- Barry Gibb and The Bee Gees
- Gloria Estefan, 2017 Honoree
9 comments
Barry Gibb? About time he got recognised! The Bee Gees are a legend. Miss the brothers…
Barry Gibb, now thats a legend. Miss the Bee Gees so much. Will be tuning in to cbs, for sure. Congrats to all!
Queen Latifah, you make us proud! Jersey girls can indeed do it all. Go get ’em, Queen.
oh my goodness! Renee Fleming too?? shes an opera queen. cant wait to see this!
I’m so excited to see the ceremony! The list of honorees this year is just mind-blowing. Kudos to all of ’em.
omg, can’t believe Queen Latifah’s getting a Kennedy Center Honor. She’s come so far… truly inspirational!
Billy Crystal? Didn’t know he was into music. He’s funny as hell though. Cool to see him getting some recognition.
Dionne Warwick is such a queen! Her music touched so many lives… well deserved.
Queen Latifah reppin NJ. We r proud! Always knew she was special. Singing, rapping, acting… gal can do everything!