The Kennedy Center award is modeled after Karl Gerhardt's bronze bust of Twain.
Awarded for
having "had an impact on American society in ways similar to" Mark Twain
Location
Washington, D.C.
Country
United States
Presented by
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
First awarded
1998
Currently held by
Kevin Hart (2024)
Website
Official website
Television coverage
Network
Comedy Central (1998–1999)
PBS (2000–2022)
CNN (2023)
Netflix (2024–present)[1]
The Mark Twain Prize for American Humor is an American award presented by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. annually since 1998, except for the years 2020 and 2021. Named after the 19th-century humorist Mark Twain, it is presented to individuals who have "had an impact on American society in ways similar to" Twain.[2] The Kennedy Center chose Twain in recognition of his role as a controversial social commentator and his "uncompromising perspective of social injustice and personal folly."[2] A copy of Karl Gerhardt's 1884 bust of Twain is presented in an autumn ceremony at the Kennedy Center Concert Hall, during which the honoree is celebrated by his or her peers. The event is a significant fundraiser to benefit the Kennedy Center, which sells tickets as well as access to dinners and after-parties featuring the celebrities.
As of 2024[update], 25 individuals have been awarded the honor: six women and 19 men. Bill Cosby's award was rescinded by the Kennedy Center in 2018. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were no awards in 2020 or 2021.[3]
^White, Peter (March 14, 2024). "Netflix To Air Mark Twain Prize For American Humor; Kevin Hart To Be Feted". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved March 14, 2024.
^ ab"The Kennedy Center Mark Twain Prize for Humor". The Kennedy Center. Retrieved March 29, 2020.
^Bahr, Sarah (January 19, 2022). "Jon Stewart to Receive Mark Twain Prize for American Humor". The New York Times. Retrieved January 19, 2022.
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