WASHINGTON – Bill Maher has been announced as the recipient of the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, according to a statement from the Kennedy Center. This award comes shortly after a contentious period marked by a strong denial from the White House regarding Maher’s candidacy for the honor. The comedian, known for his sharp wit and controversial takes, has had a complex relationship with former President Donald Trump.
Roma Daravi, the Kennedy Center’s vice president of public relations, noted, “For nearly three decades, the Mark Twain Prize has celebrated some of the greatest minds in comedy. For even longer, Bill has been influencing American discourse — one politically incorrect joke at a time.” This sentiment highlights Maher’s significant impact on American culture and commentary.
In his response, Maher humorously remarked that he “just had the award explained to me, and apparently it’s like an Emmy, except I win.” This lighthearted comment reflects his characteristic style, blending humor with commentary on his achievements.
The award will be presented on June 28, before Trump plans to close the Kennedy Center for renovations expected to last about two years. The Kennedy Center has awarded the Mark Twain Prize since 1998, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to humor and commentary in the United States. Previous honorees include notable figures such as Conan O’Brien, Dave Chappelle, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, David Letterman, Carol Burnett, and Tina Fey.
Following a report by The Atlantic that Maher would receive the prize, the White House communications director, Steven Cheung, labeled the story as “literally FAKE NEWS.” However, the White House did not comment further on the award announcement.
The relationship between Maher and Trump has been fraught with tension over the years. In 2013, prior to Trump’s presidency, the former businessman filed a $5 million lawsuit against Maher after the comedian jokingly challenged Trump to prove he was not “the spawn of his mother having sex with an orangutan.” Trump claimed Maher did not pay up when he provided his birth certificate, leading to a lawsuit that was eventually dropped.
Earlier this year, Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Maher, stating on social media that he regretted having lunch with the comedian, claiming Maher was nervous and lacked confidence during their meeting. In contrast, Maher described the encounter as enjoyable, noting that Trump was “gracious and measured,” not the “crazy person” he often portrays on television. He emphasized his desire for the president to succeed while also holding him accountable for his policies.
In his show “Real Time,” Maher took the opportunity to acknowledge certain Trump policies he agreed with, including the importance of NATO members contributing their fair share and the removal of serious criminals. He stated, “I may be the last person from the lunatic left that is still an honest broker when it comes to you,” underscoring his commitment to constructive discourse while critiquing the aspects of Trump’s presidency he disagrees with.
As the presentation of the Mark Twain Prize approaches, it serves as a reminder of Maher’s enduring influence on American humor and political commentary, as well as the complex dynamics of his relationship with Trump.
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Associated Press writer Mark Kennedy in New York contributed to this report.
