Bill Maher to Receive Mark Twain Award at Kennedy Center

John Mellencamp, Jay Leno, and Whitney Cummings are set to be among the guest speakers at the ceremony honoring Bill Maher with the Mark Twain Award for American Humor. The event will take place on June 28 at the Kennedy Center.

The Kennedy Center announced the speaker list to its members, offering packages ranging from $99 for a reserved seat to $1,500 for seating and access to pre- and post-show receptions.

This award marks a significant moment for the Kennedy Center, as it reverts to its original name following a federal judge’s ruling. The ruling stated that the board of trustees, selected by former President Donald Trump, acted illegally when renaming the venue. The center’s name, given by Congress in 1964 in honor of President John F. Kennedy, can only be changed by congressional decision.

U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper emphasized the center’s dedication to its original naming statute. Although there was mention of a possible appeal by a Kennedy spokesperson, steps are being taken to comply with the ruling, including the removal of Trump’s name from the center.

During his presidency, Trump integrated the center into his agenda by replacing its leadership and filling the board with his supporters. This led to some performers, such as Issa Rae, Bela Fleck, and Renée Fleming, canceling their engagements at the venue.

Bill Maher is the 27th recipient of the Twain Award. The award has been previously given to notable figures like Jay Leno, Steve Martin, and Tina Fey. Maher, known for his independent comedic style, has been openly critical of both sides of the political spectrum, including his public feuds with Trump. He frequently critiques Hollywood while interviewing a variety of guests, from liberals like Jane Fonda to conservatives like Ben Shapiro.

The ceremony will also host comedian Louis C.K., who has resumed touring since facing misconduct allegations in 2017, and ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith, known for his outspoken and sometimes controversial commentary on sports and other matters.