WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Kevin Hart has been awarded the Kennedy Center’s Mark Twain Prize for lifetime achievement in American humor, capping a three-decade career that saw him rise from open mics in Philadelphia to become one of his generation’s most successful performers.
Hart, 44, began his career as a youngster, performing at places such as The Laff House in his hometown of Philadelphia as Lil Kev. He described his early stand-up appearances as a series of terrible failures, including getting booed off the stage many times and having a piece of chicken thrown at him on stage.
Hart gradually perfected a unique style that matched his tiny size, expressive features, and motormouth delivery, propelling him to stardom as a touring act. He debuted in the 2002 film “Paper Soldiers” and rose to prominence with scene-stealing cameos in blockbusters such as 2005’s “The 40-Year-Old-Virgin.”
Hart has since become one of the country’s most bankable and well-known actors, with 11 of his films debuting at the top of the box office. His films have made more than $4.23 billion in total worldwide revenue.
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Kevin Hart Will Receive The Kennedy Center’s Mark Twain Prize For Lifetime Achievement In Comedy
“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,” Kennedy Center President Deborah F. Rutter said in a statement Wednesday. “We express our gratitude to Kevin for enriching American culture and look forward to celebrating his exceptional career.”
The Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, now in its 25th year, rewards performers who have had a lasting impact on humor and culture. Honorees are presented with a bronze bust of Mark Twain, the legendary American satirist and writer whose true name was Samuel Clemens.
Hart stated that the establishment of the Mark Twain Prize in 1998, with the first recipient Richard Pryor, coincided with the beginning of his comedy career.
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Kevin Hart Will Receive The Kennedy Center’s Mark Twain Prize For Lifetime Achievement In Comedy
“To be honored in this commemorative year feels surreal,” Hart said. “Comedy is my outlet for social commentary and life observations.” “I am grateful to the Kennedy Center for recognizing my voice and cultural impact.”
Hart will accept his award on March 24 at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The event will be televised at a later date to be specified.
Mark Twain award winners are celebrated with a night of testimonials and video tributes, frequently including prior award winners. George Carlin, Whoopi Goldberg, Bob Newhart, Carol Burnett, and Dave Chapelle are among the other comedians who have received the Lifetime Achievement Award. The 2009 laureate Bill Cosby had his Mark Twain Prize revoked in 2019 due to many claims of sexual assault.
