Richard Grenell, acting president of the Kennedy Center and President Donald Trump ally, has been elected to Live Nation Entertainments Board of Directors.
The announcement, issued on Tuesday, comes as chief executive Michael Rapino continues to navigate regulatory landmines with the potential to blow up the company. Under Trump, the Department of Justice hasnt abandoned a lawsuit that looks to break up Live Nation and Ticketmaster. In a separate inquiry, federal prosecutors are also looking into whether the company and AEG Presents colluded in violation of antitrust laws on refund policies for canceled concerts during the early days of the pandemic in 2020. The appointment of Grenell to the board gives Live Nation a direct pathway to Trumps ear. Trump wields power of dealmaking and regulatory matters atypical of previous administrations. Theres the belief that theres more value in having his phone number or knowing someone who does than with prior presidents.
The power of live performances to bring people together while boosting local economies is transformative, said Grenell in a statement. Im proud to join the board and support Live Nations efforts to grow this positive impact of concerts around the world.
Grenell has served as U.S. Ambassador to Germany and acting director of National Intelligence both under Trump. Hes currently the presidential envoy for special missions and oversees operations and programming at the Kennedy Center.
In a statement, Randall Mays, chairman of Live Nations board, stressed that Grenells background will bring a valuable perspective as Live Nation continues to contribute to a growing live music industry around the globe.
In April, Meta named Patrick Collison, who served as deputy National Security Advisor to Trump and is married to a Republican Senator, to its board.