Members of the legendary rock band KISS have expressed their gratitude and honor after being named recipients of the Kennedy Center Honors. The announcement was made by U.S. President Donald Trump, who is now serving as chairman of the board for the prominent arts institution.

Speaking to TMZ, Gene Simmons commented on the band’s inclusion, stating, “KISS is the embodiment of the American Dream. We are deeply honored to receive the Kennedy Center Honor.”

Paul Stanley echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the band’s long and hard-fought career. He remarked: “From our earliest days, KISS has embodied the American ideal that all things are possible and that hard work pays off. The prestige of the Kennedy Center Honors cannot be overstated and I accept this on behalf of the long legacy of KISS and all of the band members who helped create our iconic band.”

Founding guitarist Ace Frehley also shared his reaction, describing the honor as something he never expected. He called the recognition “a dream come true that I never thought would materialize.”

The KISS members are part of a diverse group of honorees for the 48th annual ceremony. Other individuals to be recognized include country music star George Strait, actor Sylvester Stallone, singer Gloria Gaynor, and actor-singer Michael Crawford. President Trump announced the honorees during a press conference at the performing arts center, where he praised the group as “outstanding people, an outstanding group — incredible.”

The annual ceremony, which traditionally takes place in Washington, D.C. in December, will be hosted and produced by President Trump. The event, which airs on CBS, celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to American culture through the performing arts.

The Kennedy Center made a preview post on X on Tuesday, writing: “A country music icon, an Englishman, a New York City Rock band, a dance Queen and a multi-billion dollar Actor walk into the Kennedy Center Opera House…”