Photo: Kevin Wolf/AP
Jon Stewartwas honored for his comedic legacy.
The 59-year-old comedian and political commentator became the 23rd recipient of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor on Sunday. While accepting the award at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., Stewart opened up about the important role comedy plays in society: “Comedy survives every moment.”
At one point, Stewart referenced the infamous 2022 Oscars slap, whenWill Smithstruck comedianChris Rockover a joke about his wifeJada Pinkett Smith. “It’s not the fragility of audiences. It’s not the world police that are going to be an existential threat to comedy. It’s not theFresh Prince. It’s the Crown Prince. It’s not the fragility of audiences. It’s the fragility of leaders,” he said.
“It ain’t the pronoun police — it’s the secret police. It always has and it always will be,” he continued. “What we have is fragile and precious. And the way to guard against it isn’t to change how audiences think, it’s to change how leaders lead.”
The Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, named after the late writer and humorist of the same name, honors those who’ve had an impact on society. Past recipients includeJulia Louis-Dreyfus,Steve MartinandWhoopi Goldberg.
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The first-ever Mark Twain Prize was presented toRichard Pryorin 1998.
Stewart’s comedic legacy spans decades. After getting started as a stand-up comedian, Stewart went on to act in dozens of projects. He, however, is best known for hostingThe Daily Show with Jon Stewartfrom 1999 to 2015.
Jon Stewart.John Lamparski/WireImage
Aside from developing an impressive career, Stewart has served as an advocate for 9/11 first responders. For his efforts, he received the New York City Bronze Medallion in 2019 forhelping to pass the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund Act.
Fans can see Stewart accept the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor during the event’s broadcast on June 21 at 9 p.m. ET on PBS (check local listings).
source: people.com
