The history and "forever themes" are the best reason for a "Cabaret" display at the Smithsonian, according to star Joel Grey, who presented a hat to the Museum of American History's collection on Friday night.

Grey credited the 1972 Liza Minnelli film with pre-Nazi Germany history and influencing sexual politics and rock music.

Grey has his own history with the District, where he performed "Cabaret" on stage in the '80s and later at the White House for President Ford. He has never met President Obama but thinks he's

"cool."

"I bet you he has [seen 'Cabaret']," Grey told Yeas & Nays.

Grey, who once guest starred in a memorable role as Doc on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," said "little girls" still stop him on the street asking to see his "tail." But when it comes to current TV, Grey is not

immune to the "Homeland" actor-catnip. He'd love to play a villain "or somebody that seems like a good guy" on the D.C.-set show.