There are few comedians, or entertainers of any kind really, that get the amount of love thatBill Murraydoes from people of all ages. He has had a massive impact on comedy for more than three decades, and he is about to receive a very big honor for his accomplishments. TheGhostbustersactor and formerSaturday Night Livecast member will be receiving theMark Twain Prizefor American Humor this year, becoming the 19th recipient of the award.
The Kennedy Centerrecently made the announcement thatMurraywill be this year’s recipient of the award, which is meant to honor people who have made a significant impact on American society, through the medium of comedy.Murraywill be receiving the award during a ceremony at the Kennedy Center Concert Hall on October 23, which will feature a lineup of entertainers to salute him and his accomplishments.Murrayresponded to the honor in a statement shortly following the announcement. Here is what he had to say.
“I’m honored by this award and by its timing. I believe Mark Twain has rolled over in his grave so much for so long, that this news won’t disturb his peace.”
Bill Murraywill be in very good company in receiving this award, as a lot of very well respectedcomedy legendshave received it before him. Last year, it wasEddie Murphywho took home the prize for his trailblazing work in movies likeBeverly Hills Cop, and for his stand-up. Other past recipients of the prize includeSteve Martin,Ellen Degeneres,Richard Pryor,Tina Fey,George Carlin,Lily TomlinandBob Newhart. Not a bad group to be a part of, andMurrayseems very deserving of having his name included in that bunch.
His career has spanned four decades, but starting in the early 1980s,Bill Murraybecame one of the biggest comedic stars on the planet. With roles in movies likeCaddyshack,GhostbustersandGroundhog Day, his place among comedy royalty was cemented even before he turned in some of his best performances. In the late 90s and throughout the 2000s,Murray, working with directors likeWes Anderson, also started taking on some more dramatic roles, all while maintaining his classic, comedic sensibility. Kennedy Center presidentDeborah F. Rutterheaped praise uponMurrayin a statement following the announcement that he would be receiving the award this year.
“His brilliant wit and infectious spirit continue to inspire our laughter across generations both on and off the screen. His unique brand of humor seems to defy time itself - always remaining relevant and relatable to new audiences - much like our award’s namesake,”
The event is taking place on Sunday, October 23 at 8 p.m. at the Kennedy Center Concert Hall in Washington D.C. If you happen to be in the area, tickets for the event are available, starting at $75. There is no word on whether or not the event will belive streamedor televised, but it doesn’t seem likely since they haven’t released any information suggesting that will be the case.
