The Kennedy Center has selected a wide-ranging group of artists for its 2026 honors, recognizing careers that have shaped American entertainment and culture.
David Mamet, the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and screenwriter, is among the honorees, underscoring the lasting influence of his work in theater and film.
Singer and songwriter Paul Anka will also receive recognition for a career spanning decades, with hits that helped define popular music for generations.
Actor Andy Garcia joins the class, honored for performances across film and television and for his contributions to the entertainment industry.
The annual Kennedy Center Honors celebrate artists whose work has made a lasting impact on American culture. The 2026 selections reflect the institution’s tradition of bringing together influential figures from multiple creative fields.
Additional honorees and details about the ceremony, including its date and broadcast plans, are expected to be announced by the Kennedy Center.