Conan O'Brien's comedy resume can be stacked up against just about anyone in the entertainment industry. Now, the late-night TV legend is finally getting a long-overdue honor in recognition of his achievements.
O'Brien will receive the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor at the John F, Kennedy Center for Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., on March 23. Netflix will stream the event, although not live.
The award is given to individuals who have impacted society in a way similar to Mark Twain. The 19th-century American author was noted for his social commentary and witticisms.
“I am honored to be the first winner of the Mark Twain Prize recognized not for humor, but for my work as a riverboat pilot,” O'Brien said, showcasing his signature sense of humor.
"For four decades, Conan O’Brien, has brought his unique blend of the smart, silly, insightful, and hilarious into our homes,” said Deborah F. Rutter, president of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. “From Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons ... to late night, podcasts, and all things Team Coco, Conan is a master of invention and reinvention, consistently pushing the envelope in search of new comedic heights."
O'Brien has a history with the Mark Twain Prize, appearing at multiple events to honor previous winners. Those include Saturday Night Live creator Lorne Michaels, as well as actors and SNL alumni Will Ferrell and Adam Sandler.
O'Brien's resume makes him well-deserving of the honor. The only question is why it took so long for his name to be called. Previous honorees of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor include Richard Pryor, Jonathan Winters, Carl Reiner, Whoopi Goldberg, Bob Newhart, Lily Tomlin, Lorne Michaels, Steve Martin, Neil Simon, Billy Crystal, George Carlin, Bill Cosby, Tina Fey, Will Ferell, Ellen DeGeneres, Carl Burnett, Jay Leno, Eddie Murphy, Bill Murray, David Letterman, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Dave Chappelle, Jon Stewart, Adam Sandler, and Kevin Hart.
Expect a star-studded event for O'Brien, one of the most beloved figures in comedy. Don't let the podcast name fool you -- he's got plenty of friends from his decades in comedy through The Simpsons, Saturday Night Live, and late-night TV. It's another reason 2025 is shaping up to be an incredible year for Conan O'Brien.