Kevin Hart Named 25th Recipient of the Mark Twain Prize For American Humor
Kevin Hart poses during a photoshoot. (Brian Bowen Smith)
By: Adonis Armstrong
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts revealed on Wednesday (Nov. 15) that Kevin Hart is set to receive the 25th Mark Twain Prize For American Humor. Respected comedians such as Richard Pryor, Whoopi Goldberg, Will Ferrell, Eddie Murphy, and Dave Chappelle have previously been honored with this prestigious award.
Hart, 44, started his career during his teenage years by showcasing his talent at places like The Laff House in Philadelphia, adopting the moniker Lil Kev. Reflecting on those early stand-up gigs, he described a series of tough setbacks, including facing repeated booing from the audience and even, as he recounted, having food thrown at him, like a piece of chicken, during a performance.
“I’ve been doing comedy since the inception of this award 25 years ago. To be honored in this commemorative year feels surreal. Comedy is my outlet for social commentary and observations on life — I am grateful to the Kennedy Center for recognizing my voice and impact on culture. I can’t wait to celebrate!”
Kennedy Center President Deborah F. Rutter also conveyed her thoughts on Hart's upcoming recognition. “For over three decades, Kevin Hart has been a source of laughter across America and throughout the world with his iconic characters, inimitable physical comedy and relatable narratives,” she stated. “An accomplished writer, producer, actor and comedian, he has made lasting contributions to the comedic landscape and represents our celebration of American humor at the Kennedy Center.”
As disclosed by the Kennedy Center, 11 of Hart’s movies premiered as the top-grossing films at the box office. The Hartbeat Productions head has also accumulated over $4.23 billion in global earnings. In July, he made a comeback to stand-up with his eighth special, Reality Check, exclusively streamed on Peacock. Scheduled for 2024, Hart is set to star in two movies, Lift and Borderlands.
Beyond his entertainment ventures, Hart extended his influence into the food industry through his plant-based restaurant chain, Hart House. By the way, Hart House is pretty good—keep striving for excellence, Kev.
Hart is scheduled to accept his award at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on March 24, with the ceremony's broadcast date yet to be announced.
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