Bette Midler and Joni Mitchell are among the five honourees who will receive the 44th Kennedy Center Honors for their lifetime artistic achievements.

The duo joins Justino Díaz, Berry Gordy, Lorne Michaels, who will be celebrated on December 5 on CBS and Paramount+.

“This year’s honourees represent the unifying power of the arts and surely remind us of that which binds us together as human beings,” Kennedy Center president Deborah F. Rutter said. 

“These artists are equal parts genius, inspiration and entertainment.”

She continued, “After the challenges and heartbreak of the last many months, and as we celebrate 50 years of the Kennedy Center, I dare add that we are prepared to throw ‘the party to end all parties’ in DC on Dec. 5th, feting these extraordinary people and welcoming audiences back to our campus.”

Kennedy Center Chairman David M. Rubenstein made the 2021 announcement on Wednesday, July 21, while highlighting the key career achievements that led to the stars’ recognition. 

Among them, he heralded Bette – aka “America’s Divine Miss M” – as an “artistic tour de force” who has received multiple Tony, Emmy and Grammy awards, along with and nine American Comedy Awards.

He praised the screen and stage star for “entertaining millions with her wondrous voice and trademark comedic wit”.

“For many years I have watched this broadcast celebrating the best talent in the performing arts that America has to offer, and I truly never imagined that I would find myself among these swans,” she beamed upon receiving the news.

Music icon Joni is recognised for her ability to blend “raw, deeply personal lyrics with her stunningly ethereal voice,” as proven across her 19 albums. 

“I’m grateful to the Kennedy Center for bestowing this honor on my work and I look forward to being a part of this prestigious celebration of the arts,” said the musician, who is celebrating 50 years of her seminal album ‘Blue’.

Meanwhile, Berry is named a “visionary music producer and songwriter,” having played pivotal roles in the careers and successes of stars including Diana Ross, Lionel Richie, Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight, the Jackson 5 and Marvin Gaye.

“The Honors epitomizes the recognition and value of both the Arts, and the Artist,” he said. ” I am thrilled to become a part of this prestigious American legacy.”