Dave Chappelle to receive Mark Twain Prize for American Humor

Dave Chappelle will receive the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor later this year. The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, which presents the award, announced the news this morning on social media.

“Dave is the embodiment of Mark Twain’s observation that ‘against the assault of humor, nothing can stand,’" Kennedy Center president Deborah F. Rutter said in a statement, according to the New York Times. "For three decades, Dave has challenged us to see hot-button issues from his entirely original yet relatable perspective.”

Chappelle, who already has two Emmys and Grammys, will be the 22nd recipient of the award. Richard Pryor, Whoopi Goldberg, Will Ferrell, and Eddie Murphy are amongst the previous recipients. Bill Cosby's award was rescinded in 2018 after the comedian was convicted on three counts of sexual assault.

The awards ceremony will take place on October 27 at the Kennedy Center in Washington. Fans can watch the ceremony on TV when it airs on PBS on January 6.