Rita Moreno is getting a new prize to go along with her EGOT. The Oscar-winning star of West Side Story is among the 2015 Kennedy Center Honors recipients.
The other entertainment stars who will be honored for their contributions to American pop culture are the rock group the Eagles, singer/songwriter Carole King, Star Wars creator George Lucas, conductor Seiji Ozawa and Broadway icon Cicely Tyson.
“The Kennedy Center Honors recognizes the extraordinary and unparalleled talents of individuals whose impact and genius have left an indelible mark on civilization,” Kennedy Center Chairman David M. Rubenstein said in a statement. “Quite simply, our Honorees represent the voices, soundtracks, and stories of our personal lives and memories.”
“Each Honoree and their career-spanning achievements exemplify a rare quality of artistic bravery,” Kennedy Center President Deborah F. Rutter added. “They have pushed the limits of their gifts as musicians, actors, and storytellers to inspire generations of Americans and those around the world.”
The honorees will receive their medals during a celebration at the Kennedy Center Opera House in Washington DC on Sunday, Dec. 6 and the ceremony will air on CBS on Dec. 29.
The Eagles are known for their countless hit singles, including “Take It Easy,” “Hotel California,” “One Of These Nights,” “Tequilla Sunrise” and many more. They are made up of Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Timothy B. Schmidt and Joe Walsh.
King is best known as half of the Gerry Goffin/Carole King songwriting team, penning such classics as “The Loco-Motion,” “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” and “I’m Into Something Good.” As a solo artist, her best-selling work is the album Tapestry.
Lucas created the Star Wars saga and also directed the sci-fi classic THX 1138 and the beloved look at ‘50s teen culture American Graffiti. Today, he is more of a philanthropist with his George Lucas Educational Foundation.
Moreno is a member of the EGOT club, winning an Oscar for West Side Story, a Tony, two Emmys and a Grammy. She’s still working today, lending her voice to NBC’s Nina’s World animated series.
Ozawa is a world-renowned conductor who served as the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s music director from 1973 to 2002. He’s also incredibly popular in Europe and is an honorary member of the Vienna Philharmonic.
Lastly, Tyson is one of Broadway’s great stars, recently making her triumphant return in The Trip to Bountiful. She was also nominated for an Oscar for Sounder and is a three-time Emmy winner.
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