The 36th Annual Kennedy Center Honors will air at 9pm ET Sunday, Dec. 29, on CBS.
The five honorees for this year’s awards, which recognize people for their lifetime contribution to American culture by elevating the performing arts, are opera singer Martina Arroyo, musicians Herbie Hancock, Billy Joel and Carlos Santana, and actress Shirley MacLaine. Showing that this is no ordinary awards show, the honorees will be received by no less than President Obama and first lady Michelle Obama, and will be seated next to the couple during the ceremonies.
The evening will include heartfelt tributes from a variety of stars, including musical performances from the likes of Buddy Guy and Tom Morello for Santana; Chick Corea, Snoop Dogg (er, Snoop Lion) and Mix Master Mike for Hancock; and Tony Bennett, Rufus Wainwright, Don Henley and Garth Brooks (who takes the stage with a group of veterans for a poignant rendition of “Goodnight Saigon”) for Joel. MacLaine’s celebrants include Broadway stars Sutton Foster, Anna Kendrick, Karen Olivo and Patina Miller.
Also noteworthy are the introductions, including Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor for Arroyo and — you’re reading this right — Fox News host Bill O’Reilly for Hancock.
“The Kennedy Center celebrates five extraordinary individuals who have spent their lives elevating the cultural vibrancy of our nation and the world,” said Kennedy Center Chairman David M. Rubenstein. “Martina Arroyo has dazzled the world with her glorious soprano voice and continues to share her artistry with a new generation of opera singers; Herbie Hancock has established himself as one of the most innovative musicians in the world, constantly breaking musical barriers and redefining the art of jazz; Billy Joel’s melodies have provided the soundtrack of our lives for over four decades, making him one of pop music’s most prolific and memorable singers and songwriters; the remarkable breadth and range of Shirley MacLaine’s acting has left an indelible impression during a nearly 60-year career on stage and screen; from his legendary performance at Woodstock to his sweep at the 2000 Grammys and beyond, Carlos Santana’s artistry transcends genres while entertaining millions.”
The ceremony was taped Dec. 8 and makes for a perfect post-holiday viewing treat.
