Lionel Richie said Tuesday that he’s thinking about boycotting the Kennedy Center honors because he’s “not really happy” with what’s happening under President Donald Trump.
“You know, I’m gonna just play it by ear,” the 68-year-old singer explained on “Today” after being asked if he plans to attend the Kennedy Center honors at this year’s induction in December. The hosts noted that “All in the Family” creator Norman Lear has stated he will skip the reception at the White House ahead of the event because of Trump. (RELATED: ‘All In The Family’ Creator Boycotts Kennedy Center Event Because Of Trump)
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“I must tell you, I’m not really happy with what’s going on right now with the controversies,” he added. “They’re weekly, daily, hourly. But I think I’m just going to wait it out for a minute and see where it’s gonna be by that time, this is going to be in December we may be in a whole other world by that time.”
“I’m gonna wait it out,” he continued. “I totally understand Norman’s point of view and I understand where we are as a country right now is going backwards. But all we can do is kind of sit here and hold our breaths for a minute. But I’ll let you know about that.”
Another honoree, Gloria Estefan, said she will use the opportunity to question the president on his immigration policy.
“Mr. President, as a proud immigrant of this country, it’s very important for me that you see the wonderful contributions we have made,” the Grammy award winner said she will explain to the president. “We have seen a lot of anti-immigrant backlash this year, so for us, it may hold even more beauty than for someone who has lived here all their lives. To get this kind of award is so American.”
Rapper and actor LL Cool J–named as the first hip-hop honoree–said he plans to attend, but won’t make the night about politics.