Conan O’Brien Receives Mark Twain Prize Amid Kennedy Center Controversy

Washington — The renowned comedian Conan O’Brien accepted the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for lifetime achievement in comedy during a ceremony at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on March 23, 2025. This year’s event was marked by humor and a sense of foreboding regarding the center’s future following recent organizational changes.

Acknowledgment of Staff and Challenges

In his acceptance speech, O’Brien, who was announced as the 26th recipient of the prize earlier in January, expressed gratitude for the support of Kennedy Center staff, acknowledging their concerns amidst the uncertainty surrounding the cultural institution. “I want to particularly thank Rubenstein and Rutter,” he said, drawing applause from the audience.

The Impact of Recent Changes

O’Brien’s comments came in light of former President Trump’s recent decision to dissolve the Kennedy Center’s board of directors, appointing himself as chairman. The new board, comprising political allies, sparked reactions from many artists and observers regarding the center’s direction. O’Brien underscored the historical significance of Mark Twain, stating, “Twain hated bullies… He punched up, not down, and he deeply empathized with the weak,” highlighting the relevance of Twain’s values in contemporary America.

Musical Tribute and Humorous Jabs

The evening concluded with a lively celebration, featuring O’Brien slow dancing with a Mark Twain impersonator, later joined on stage by several others, including past prize recipient Adam Sandler. Together, they performed Neil Young’s “Rockin’ in the Free World,” providing a vibrant end to the night.

Throughout the ceremony, comic figures like Stephen Colbert and Sarah Silverman made light of the contentious political climate surrounding the Kennedy Center. Colbert humorously proposed two fictional members added to the board, while Silverman delivered more pointed critiques that highlighted ongoing tensions.

O’Brien’s Career Journey

O’Brien, who first gained fame in 1993 as the host of “Late Night,” has built an illustrious career characterized by whimsical humor and an occasional focus on social issues. Notably, he officiated a live gay wedding on his show in 2011, showcasing his commitment to inclusivity.

His rise took many by surprise, transitioning from a largely behind-the-scenes role as a writer for “Saturday Night Live” and “The Simpsons” to becoming a late-night television fixture. Though his journey has included both triumphs and trials, such as his highly publicized exit from “The Tonight Show,” O’Brien continues to evolve as a successful media personality.

Future Prospects

Despite the challenges posed by Trump’s alterations to the Kennedy Center administration, O’Brien is enjoying a resurgence in popularity, with his travel series “Conan O’Brien Must Go” receiving acclaim and a return to host the Academy Awards in the coming year.

Artists’ reactions to the Kennedy Center’s new direction remain varied; several have canceled planned appearances or used their performances to vocally address the ongoing political situation. O’Brien’s time on stage served as a reminder of the unpredictable intersection between art and politics, which is sure to unfold in the coming months.

In conclusion, the 2025 Mark Twain Prize ceremony was not only a celebration of Conan O’Brien’s comedic legacy but also a moment of reflection on the evolving landscape of American culture and the impact of leadership changes in significant institutions like the Kennedy Center.

Streaming Information

The complete ceremony will be available for streaming on Netflix starting May 4.