US President Donald Trump is expected to remove Richard Grenell from his post as director of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, according to three sources cited by CNN.
The decision comes at a time when the renowned arts and cultural institution in Washington, which now also bears Trump's name on the facade, is expected to close for two years for reconstruction, while the president aims to reshape it according to his vision.
According to sources, the announcement of Grenell's departure could be made as early as today.
Grenell has served as interim president of the Kennedy Center since February 2025, but his tenure has been marked by controversy, cancellations of popular performances, protests, declining ticket sales and financial difficulties.
Although he has been one of Trump's most loyal aides and has held various roles during his two presidential terms, sources say the president has become increasingly unhappy with negative headlines in the media regarding the way the institution is being run.
A source close to the White House said Trump appreciated Grenell but thought he had failed in the way he managed the Kennedy Center's direction and public communications.
However, an administration official insisted that Grenell is not being fired, but that he was only expected to help during the institution's transition period and then leave.
His leadership has been criticized by some employees and art world figures, who say he lacked experience in the field and that his changes have created tension and damaged the institution. On the other hand, his supporters argue that Grenell was the right person to implement Trump's vision and bring a more direct approach to running the cultural center.
According to sources, his departure could be presented as a transition, as the Kennedy Center enters the planned construction and renovation phase.
