Raitt often shares her journey to sobriety, which she achieved in 1986, crediting Dallas musician Stevie Ray Vaughan for sponsoring her sobriety.
Reflecting on the Kennedy Center Honor, Raitt said, “There is no higher level of esteem nor as delightful a celebration, and I want to extend my sincere thanks to all who have chosen me to receive this honor.”
Francis Ford Coppola
Francis Ford Coppola, the 85-year-old film director, producer, and screenwriter, is best known for his work on “The Godfather” films. Over his illustrious career, Coppola has received numerous accolades, including five Academy Awards and six Golden Globes.
“I consider myself very fortunate to have been able to collaborate with great artists and wonderful people throughout my career, and I have never stopped learning. There is no greater honor than to be included along with those who inspired me, who I looked up to, and who gave me encouragement when times were dim,” Coppola stated.
Cultural Impact of Kennedy Center Honors
According to Kennedy Center President Deborah F. Rutter, “Our Honorees this year have each played an invaluable, pioneering role in developing American culture — not with one act of art but with their decades-long devotion to pushing creative boundaries.”
