An Icon Of Comedy

Conan O'Brien becomes the latest recipient of the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor and, in celebration, a star studded line up of comedians congregate at the Kennedy Center for an extra special gala performance! Few figures in comedy have left a mark as deep and distinctive as Conan O'Brien and the show is set to be a fitting occasion to honor this true titan of comedy. 

Massachusetts native O'Brien had begun honing his comedic talents at Harvard, but his career really took off when he joined the writing staff for Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons. In 1993 he stepped into the spotlight when NBC chose him to host Late Night. Over the years, his work has earned him an incredible array of awards, including seven Writers Guild Awards, five Emmys and a People's Choice Award for "Favorite Television Host." His 2010 live comedy tour was documented in Conan O'Brien Can't Stop, which paved the way for another extensive stand-up tour in 2018. The seasoned star joins a hallowed hall of stars to have been awarded the Mark Twain Prize, including Richard Pryor, Whoopi Goldberg, Steve Martin, Bill Cosby, David Letterman and more.