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The legendary late-night host and comedy trailblazer will receive the 26th Mark Twain Prize for American Humor during a star-studded gala at the Kennedy Center in DC on Sunday, March 23, officials announced.
The prestigious prize, named after the iconic American satirist Samuel Clemens (aka Mark Twain), honors individuals who have made a lasting impact on American society through humor.
O’Brien joins a stacked lineup of past recipients that includes George Carlin, David Letterman, Tina Fey, and Kevin Hart.
“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,” O'Brien joked in a statement.
O’Brien, a Brookline, Massachusetts native and former president of The Harvard Lampoon, made his comedy bones writing for “Saturday Night Live” and “The Simpsons” before launching a three-decade run as a late-night host.
His blend of wit, absurdity, and razor-sharp timing helped define a generation of comedy — and drew millions to his shows.
Over the years, Conan has earned five Emmy Awards, seven Writers Guild Awards, and more than 660 million podcast downloads through Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend.
His “CONAN Without Borders” travel series has taken him to 13 countries and cemented his place as one of comedy’s most adaptable and enduring voices.
The Kennedy Center’s ceremony will be filmed and streamed exclusively on Netflix.
“Conan is a master of invention and reinvention,” Kennedy Center officials said, calling him a fearless force who "consistently pushes the envelope in search of new comedic heights.”
The Mark Twain Prize will be presented during a sold-out performance in the Kennedy Center’s Concert Hall, with some of the biggest names in comedy expected to pay tribute.
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