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Conan O'Brien Honored with Mark Twain Prize at Politically Transformed Kennedy Center

The comedian's recognition comes as the Kennedy Center faces uncertainty under new leadership installed by President Trump.

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TV personality Conan O'Brien speaks onstage during the 2015 AFI Life Achievement Award Gala Tribute Honoring Steve Martin at the Dolby Theatre on June 4, 2015 in Hollywood, California.
Show host Conan O'Brien speaks during the start of the Oscars show at the 97th Academy Awards in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, U.S., March 2, 2025. REUTERS/Carlos Barria/File Photo
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Overview

  • Conan O'Brien received the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor during a ceremony at the Kennedy Center on Sunday evening.
  • The event marks the first major function under the Kennedy Center's new leadership, following President Donald Trump's dismissal of the previous board and leadership team.
  • Trump has appointed allies, including Richard Grenell and Susie Wiles, to oversee the institution, raising questions about its future direction and programming.
  • The arts community has expressed backlash over the changes, with some artists canceling appearances and others addressing the controversy in their performances.
  • The ceremony, featuring tributes from comedy legends, will be streamed on Netflix at a later date, highlighting O'Brien's decades-long career and recent acclaim.