Conan O’Brien has been selected by The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts to receive the 26th Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.

Conan O’Brien, the writer turned late-night host turned podcaster, will receive the Twain Prize for American humor at Kennedy Center on March 23.

Comedian and host Conan O’Brien is the newest recipient of the Mark Twain Prize for lifetime achievement in comedy.

The former late-night host joins the ranks of a celebrated group including Kevin Hart, Jon Stewart, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus.

Gold Derby’s top news stories for Jan. 16, 2025 Conan O’Brien to receive Mark Twain Prize for American Humor Conan O’Brien has been named the 26th recipient of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.

The comedian, podcaster and former late night host will be the 26th recipient of the award from the Kennedy Center.

The Mark Twain Prize for American Humor was first given to comedian Richard Pryor in 1998. Over the years, it’s been handed out to everyone from Carl Reiner and Neil Simon to Steve Martin, Bill Murray, Billy Crystal, Tina Fey, and Dave Chapelle. O’Brien made appearances in the past to honor Lorne Michaels, Will Ferrell, and Adam Sandler.

Conan O’Brien is the latest comedian to be feted at the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. The former host of Conan and The Tonight Show will receive the award on March 23 at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

Before hosting this year’s Oscars, comedian Conan O’Brien will accept his own big award. The Emmy Award winner, set to host the 97th Academy Awards on March 2, will be honored with the 2025 Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.

Comedian Conan O'Brien is the latest former late-night host to receive the Mark Twain prize: a distinction for American humor.

Mark Twain recipients are honored with a night of testimonials and video tributes, often featuring previous award winners. The ceremony will stream on Netflix at a later date yet to be announced.