Midler, Gordy Among New Kennedy Center Honorees 

WASHINGTON - The Kennedy Center Honors will return in December with a class that includes Motown Records creator Berry Gordy, "Saturday Night Live" mastermind Lorne Michaels and actress-singer Bette Midler.

Organizers expect to operate at full capacity, after last year's ceremony was delayed for months and later conducted under COVID-19 restrictions. This 44th class of honorees for lifetime achievement in the creative arts is heavy on musical performers. The honorees also include opera singer Justino Diaz and folk music legend Joni Mitchell. All will be honored on December 5 with a trademark program that includes personalized tributes and performances that are kept secret from the honorees.