WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Wednesday named country music star George Strait, “Rocky” actor Sylvester Stallone, singer Gloria Gaynor, the rock band Kiss and actor-singer Michael Crawford among the first batch of Kennedy Center Honors nominees under his leadership as the center’s chairman and said he’ll host the awards program.

Founding members of KISS, who have previously called the MAGA leader “abhorrent,” expressed gratitude for the prestigious recognition.

Maverick' star has turned down the prestigious arts award, as the president says he plans to personally host this year's ceremony.