Oz Pearlman to Headline 2026 White House Correspondents’ Dinner

The White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) has announced that mentalist Oz Pearlman will be the featured entertainer for its annual dinner on April 25, 2026. This decision continues a trend of moving away from traditional comedic acts, as the WHCA previously canceled comedian Amber Ruffin's appearance last year following criticism from the Trump administration. WHCA president Weijia Jiang emphasized Pearlman's unique approach, stating, “As the world’s most celebrated mentalist, Oz Pearlman will offer a fascinating glimpse into what’s truly on the minds of Washington’s newsmakers.”

Deadline HollywoodHollywood ReporterTimes of IsraelMentalist Oz Pearlman named WHCD headliner / Bill O’Reilly returns to cable news anchor chair / A Different World brings back Charnele Brown and Jenifer LewisThe Wrap

The White House Correspondents’ Dinner serves as a fundraiser for journalism scholarships and a celebration of the First Amendment. Historically, the event has included performances by comedians, but recent years have seen a shift in this tradition. Notably, after Michelle Wolf's controversial set in 2018, which drew ire from President Trump, the WHCA opted for a historian in 2019 and canceled Ruffin's act in 2025. The absence of the president at these events has become a norm, as Trump has not attended during his presidency.

The Wrap

Oz Pearlman, an Emmy Award winner and New York Times bestselling author, gained fame through his performances on shows like "America’s Got Talent," "60 Minutes," and "The Joe Rogan Experience." His mentalism acts often involve mind-reading and have garnered attention across various media platforms, including viral clips showcasing his performances with NFL teams. Pearlman expressed his excitement about headlining the dinner, stating, “This is a rare opportunity to gather so many accomplished, perceptive people in one place and invite them to share moments of wonder, surprise and awe.”

Times of Israel

The WHCA's choice of Pearlman reflects a desire for a fresh and interactive experience at the dinner. Jiang noted the importance of celebrating Washington news coverage while providing an engaging atmosphere. Pearlman’s act is expected to cater to the audience's interests, moving away from politically charged humor that has characterized past events.

Times of Israel

While the WHCA aims to create a more inclusive and less divisive atmosphere, the decision to feature a mentalist instead of a comedian has not been without scrutiny. Critics may argue that this shift could dilute the event's traditional role as a platform for political satire and commentary. However, the WHCA has indicated that the focus will remain on honoring journalists and their contributions.

The Wrap

As the date approaches, it remains uncertain whether President Trump will attend the dinner, given his history of skipping the event. The WHCA continues to navigate the complexities of balancing entertainment with the political sensitivities surrounding the dinner, especially in light of previous controversies.

Deadline Hollywood

• “CBS News correspondent Weijia Jiang, president of the association, said in a statement, “As the world’s most celebrated mentalist, Oz Pearlman will offer a fascinating glimpse into what’s truly on the minds of Washington’s newsmakers.” — Weijia Jiang, WHCA President

Just Jared

• “I am thrilled to be the featured entertainer at this year’s WHCA dinner and join the ranks of Frank Sinatra, Jay Leno and Conan O’Brien, among many other legends.” — Oz Pearlman

Just Jared