John Lithgow Critiques Trump Administration’s Impact on the Arts at Olivier Awards
During a recent ceremony at the Olivier Awards in London on April 5, 2025, acclaimed actor John Lithgow took a moment to voice his disapproval of Donald Trump’s second presidential term. The remarks came immediately after Lithgow secured the Best Actor honor for his compelling performance in the stage adaptation of “Giant.”
Criticism of the Kennedy Center’s Leadership Changes
Backstage, Lithgow did not shy away from discussing the administration’s controversial actions regarding the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. He characterized the governmental interventions as “shocking” and “destructive,” lamenting their negative effects on the arts landscape in the United States. Lithgow specifically pointed to the abrupt departure of Deborah Rutter, the center’s long-standing president, labeling the current state of the arts a “pure disaster.”
“Our administration has done some shocking, destructive things, but the one that grieves me the most is taking over the Kennedy Center,”Lithgow articulated during his reflections.
He highlighted his disappointment over Rutter’s premature removal, stating, “Deborah Rutter was fired from her position as president – even though she had already resigned and had [several] months to go.”Lithgow praised her contributions, noting their collaborative efforts on a commission addressing the arts crisis in America.
A Shifting Landscape in Cultural Institutions
The Kennedy Center has served as the national cultural hub since its establishment in 1971. Deborah Rutter had taken the helm in 2014 and was instrumental in various arts initiatives across the country. Although she announced her intention to step down in August 2025, reports indicated she was removed earlier than planned, with former diplomat Ric Grenell—an ally of Trump—appointed as interim leader. Such appointments, Lithgow argued, signal a troubling shift away from the center’s historically nonpartisan mission, raising concerns about the future of federally supported institutions.
Reflecting on the Arts Crisis in America
In further comments, Lithgow shared his broader concerns regarding the arts in the U.S., stating that the current atmosphere is “really disheartening.”He attributes the strain on the arts sector to both the ongoing repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic and what he perceives as politically motivated shifts within cultural organizations.
Nevertheless, Lithgow maintains a glimmer of optimism, asserting that challenging times often catalyze profound artistic expression. He remarked,
“Bad times create good art.”
Engagement with Arts Advocacy
With his extensive involvement in organizations such as the American Academy of Arts & Sciences, the National Endowment for the Arts, and Americans for the Arts, Lithgow is a staunch advocate for arts education and cultural funding. His recent statements resonate with a growing apprehension within the performing arts community regarding the influence of political appointments on artistic integrity.
Lithgow’s theatrical performance has garnered critical acclaim. In fact, he won the Olivier Award for his portrayal of Roald Dahl in “Giant,”a production set to light up London’s West End shortly after its debut at the Royal Court Theatre. During his award acceptance speech, Lithgow also reflected on his unique identity as an American artist with deep connections to British theatre, describing himself as “a curious kind of hybrid Englishman.”
Looking ahead, Lithgow announced his upcoming role in the highly anticipated HBO adaptation of the “Harry Potter”series, where he will portray the iconic Professor Dumbledore, set to begin filming this summer.