Trump Responds to Celebrity Boycott During Surprise ‘Les Misérables’ Outing
President Donald Trump addressed the controversy surrounding the cast of Les Misérables boycotting his attendance at the Kennedy Center premiere, saying, “I couldn’t care less. All I do is run the country well.” The First Couple attended the event amidst a mix of applause and jeers, sparking mixed reactions.
Speculation earlier suggested that Trump, along with Vice President J.D. Vance and his wife, would be attending a performance by understudies. Protests were also expected, with some warning of potential disruption from drag queens, though the President and First Lady proceeded to the red carpet undeterred.
Since assuming control of the Kennedy Center in February 2025, Trump removed the board and appointed Richard Grenell as the executive director, a move that caused celebrities such as Shonda Rhimes and Ben Folds to distance themselves from the venue. Several LGBTQ-related events, including Pride Month performances, were either canceled or relocated, sparking protests in the process.
On the red carpet, Trump expressed admiration for the venue and Grenell’s leadership, calling the center’s structure “incredible” and promising future enhancements. When asked about his first theater experience, Trump mentioned Cats, while Melania shared that hers was Phantom of the Opera. The First Lady also expressed her fondness for Les Misérables, which Trump revealed he had seen multiple times.
In a lighthearted exchange, Trump was asked whether he identified more with the characters Javert or Jean Valjean. Laughing, he replied, “That’s tough. You better answer that one, honey.” Melania, however, stayed silent.
