President Trump delivered a HILARIOUS and UNEXPECTED compliment to George Strait after the country star removed his signature cowboy hat

George Strait, the King of Country Music, was honored this week in the Oval Office ahead of the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors. He joins a distinguished group of honorees including KISS, Sylvester Stallone, Broadway legend Michael Crawford, and disco icon Gloria Gaynor.

The Kennedy Center Honors, held annually in Washington, D.C., celebrate artists whose work has profoundly influenced American culture. Past country recipients include Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn, Merle Haggard, and George Jones.

Earlier this year, President Donald Trump highlighted Strait’s career achievements, noting his four-decade run, 120 million records sold, 60 #1 hits, and 33 platinum albums — accomplishments unmatched by any other living American.

In the Oval Office ceremony, Strait and the other 2025 honorees received their Kennedy Center medallions. This year’s medal, designed by Tiffany & Co., features a blue ribbon replacing the traditional rainbow.

During the presentation, Trump lightened the mood by joking about Strait’s famously perfect hair when the singer removed his iconic cowboy hat.

The 48th Annual Kennedy Center Honors ceremony will be held tomorrow evening, with President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump hosting. Fans will be able to watch the event on CBS and Paramount+ later this month.

This recognition celebrates George Strait’s enduring influence, timeless voice, and iconic style, honoring a career that has left a lasting imprint on multiple generations of music lovers.