The Mark Twain Prize for American Humor is one of the highest honors in American art and culture. Presented by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., the Mark Twain Prize honors those who have an impact similar to the 19th century American author, Samuel Clemens, aka Mark Twain. The winner has the opportunity to meet the current president. It’s worth mentioning that the award is mostly awarded to America’s best comedic minds, despite Twain’s writings not aligning with what people think is comedy today.
But, technicalities aside, a number of would-be winners have refused the prize. Notably,the late Robin Williamsrefused the award. While it’s not completely clear why everyone who’s turned it down chose not to be honored, the Twain Prize has arguably suffered some bad publicity, and, at the very least, isn’t considered as prestigious as in the past. With the award ceremony now airing on Netflix, it’s worth wondering if the Twain Prize is as meaningful today as it was when it was first presented in 1998.
It’s Unknown Why Robin Williams Refused The Mark Twain Prize — & He’s Not The Only One
Several Comedians Have Passed On The Award
Robin Williams refused the Mark Twain Prize back in 2009 for unknown reasons. However, Williams did attend the ceremony to honor winner Billy Crystal in 2007. There’s speculation that Williams didn’t accept the award because of his complex relationship with being awarded. Williams reportedly preferred to interact with fans more than be honored with an award.
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The late comedian is also not the only one to refuse the award, ascomedy legend Mel Brookshas said no to the honor three times. The co-founder of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, Cappy McGarr, spoke to Brooks' triple refusal (viaWTOP News):
Mel Brooks has turned us down three times. The white whale that got away. … I said, ‘Look, Mel, if you say no, I’m gonna have to do a [‘Blazing Saddles’] No. 6 on you.’ … He laughed so hard I think I got some egg salad sandwich on my coat. … Mel Brooks is truly one of the people that 100% deserves the Mark Twain Prize.
After Williams refused the award, the honor went to thenow-disgraced Bill Cosby.While Cosby was awarded the prize in 2009, The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts rescinded his award back in 2018,after he was found guilty of indecent aggravated assault. Cosby had refused the award two times before because he was disappointed with the use of profanity in Richard Pyor’s inaugural award in 1998 (viaNew York Times).
The Kevin Hart & Netflix Mark Twain Prize Controversy Explained
Hart’s Deal With Netflix Raised Some Eyebrows Over Him Winning The Prize
Since 2024, the Mark Twain Prize presentation has been shown on Netflix. Before that, the ceremony was broadcast on PBS for over 20 years.Some critics argue that presenting the award on Netflix isolates American viewers who might not have access to streamingbut still want to watch a significant moment in American art.
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The first comedian honored since Netflix took over the Mark Twain Prize was Kevin Hart in 2024, whichcaused controversy because ofHart’s connection with the streaming service. In 2021, Hart signed a four-picture deal with Netflix, similar to Adam Sandler’s deal with the streaming giant back in 2014, before Netflix was a staple in nearly every American home (viaFox Business).
Some also felt thatHart’s win presents not just a conflict of interest, but also an indication that the Mark Twain Prize has lost its prestige.WhileHart is certainly a talented comedian, he hasn’t achieved icon status like so many other recipients, such as Bob Newhart, Carol Burnett, and Eddie Murphy. Plus, since its inception, the award has only been given to five women. Factor in Hart’s deal with Netflix, and the award is ripe for criticism about its merit.
Conan O’Brien Will Receive The 2025 Mark Twain Prize
He’s Also Hosting The Oscars In March
Comedian and formerlate-night host Conan O’Brienis set to receive the 26th Mark Twain Prize. Former president of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Deborah F. Rutter, spoke highly of O’Brien on the foundation’s website. She said: “For four decades, Conan O’Brien, has brought his unique blend of the smart, silly, insightful, and hilarious into our homes." (viaJohn F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts).
Rutter was dismissed as president of the Kennedy Center in February 2025 after President Donald Trump became the organization’s chairman. She was replaced by U.S. Envoy Richard Grenell. There has been no indication that these changes in administration will affect the 2025 Mark Twain Prize award ceremony.
O’Brien is of course best known for hosting late-night talk shows likeLate Night with Conan O’Brienand writing for classic comedy shows likeSaturday Night LiveandThe Simpsons.On being honored with the Mark Twain Prize, O’Brien said, “I am honored to be the first winner of the Mark Twain Prize, recognized not for humor, but for my work as a riverboat pilot."
Conan O’Brien certainly has his hands full, as he is set to host the97th Academy Awardson Sunday, March 2nd. TheMark Twain Prizeceremony will take place on Sunday, March 23rd. Netflix has yet to announce when the event will be streamed on its platform.
