Conan O’Brien received the prestigious Kennedy Center Mark Twain Prize for American Humour. The ceremony is available to stream on Netflix from 4 May 2025.
This annual award pays tribute to comedians who have left a lasting mark on American society through their wit and satire.
CONAN O’BRIEN AND THE MARK TWAIN PRIZE
This year’s recipient, Conan O’Brien, was honoured in a star-studded gala held at the iconic John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.
The 26th Mark Twain Prize ceremony, filmed on 23 March 2025, brought together some of comedy’s biggest names.
This included Adam Sandler, Stephen Colbert, Sarah Silverman, Will Ferrell, John Mulaney, and David Letterman, among others.
Their heartfelt tributes and hilarious roasts captured the spirit of O’Brien’s four-decade journey in comedy, according to Observer Voice.
CONAN O’BRIEN’S CAREER
He started out from his early days writing for Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons to his late-night talk show fame and popular podcast, Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend.
Kennedy Center President Deborah F. Rutter praised Conan’s unique blend of “smart, silly, insightful and hilarious” humour.
Rutter noted his ability to reinvent himself continuously.
“Conan is a master of invention and reinvention, consistently pushing the envelope in search of new comedic heights,” she said.
CONAN O’BRIEN ON HIS CAREER
O’Brien, known for his quick wit and self-deprecating humour, joked upon receiving the award,
“I am honoured to be the first winner of the Mark Twain Prize, recognised not for humour. But for my work as a riverboat pilot.”
Conan used his acceptance speech to reflect on his journey, recalling the tough early years when he was an unemployed graduate living modestly in Los Angeles.
His story resonated with many, showing how perseverance and passion can lead to extraordinary success.
THE MARK TWAIN PRIZE CEREMONY
The event also included a pointed but humorous critique of political issues, with comedians like Will Ferrell and Tracy Morgan.
They delivered sharp, satirical remarks that resonated in today’s turbulent cultural landscape.
The Mark Twain Prize ceremony celebrates humour’s vital role in society-something people universally appreciate, regardless of borders.
As comedian John Mulaney quipped during the event, “It’s a privilege to be here at the Kennedy Center. Or as it will soon be known, the Roy Cohn Pavilion for Powerful Men Who Appreciate ‘Cats’,” a nod to the political shifts affecting the arts institution.
NETFLIX STREAMING
Netflix’s streaming of the event means South African audiences can share in the joy and legacy of one of America’s most beloved comedians from the comfort of their homes.
In a world often in need of levity, Conan O’Brien’s Mark Twain Prize ceremony reminds us all why laughter remains one of our greatest shared treasures.
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