The Kennedy Center will award comedian Bill Maher the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor on Sunday, recognizing his contributions to American comedy and commentary. Esteemed past recipients include Conan O’Brien, Dave Chappelle, and others.
Maher’s influence in comedy stems from his show “Politically Incorrect,” which he hosted in the 1990s. Celebrities like Woody Harrelson and Jay Leno are expected at the event. President Donald Trump, despite his significant alterations to the center’s leadership, will not attend the ceremony.
The Kennedy Center faces tension due to recent actions by Trump. Post his January 2025 return to office, Trump dismissed numerous leaders and installed his allies, naming himself chairman and adding his name to the building’s facade.
In May, U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper ruled Trump’s name addition illegal, blocking both the closure and renovations planned for July and ordering its removal.
The ongoing legal saga provides potential material for jokes at the Twain gala.
The part of the building where Trump’s name was displayed now lies hidden by a tarp. The center continued with plans for its last event, “The Freedom Gathering: A Musical Celebration,” on July 3 but won’t resume previously canceled programming.
Maher’s relationship with Trump has been strained. Trump sued Maher in 2013 over a comedic comment Maher made on Leno’s show. The lawsuit was later dropped.
Earlier this year, Trump criticized Maher after a dinner meeting, claiming Maher was nervous. Maher recounted the encounter on his program, noting Trump’s demeanor differed from his public persona.
Maher also hosted Vice President JD Vance on his show. During their conversation, Maher criticized current political conditions and election conspiracy theories.
Maher’s prize was initially contested. After rumors surfaced online, Trump’s aides dismissed them as fake. However, conversations among organizers affirmed the award.
Aside from Maher, others expected at the event have also shared contentious interactions with Trump. Sports analyst Stephen A. Smith criticized Trump’s NBA Finals attendance, referring to it as “selfish” and “narcissistic.”
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