The Kennedy Center is working with Netflix to bring the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor to the streaming service.
This year, the award will recognize actor and stand-up comedian Kevin Hart, who will receive the top comedy prize in the United States.
The live event will take place at the Kennedy Center Concert Hall in Washington, D.C. on March 24 and will be available for streaming on Netflix on May 11 as part of the “Netflix is a Joke Fest.”
The lineup for this spring’s gala performance includes Dave Chappelle, Jimmy Fallon, Tiffany Haddish, Chelsea Handler, Nelly, Jerry Seinfeld, and Chris Rock.
Kennedy Center President Deborah Rutter expressed her excitement about the partnership with Netflix and the Center’s 25-year tradition of honoring exceptional comedians like Kevin. Rutter made the statement in which she announced the partnership with Netflix. Rutter, while announcing the agreement, said, “The Mark Twain Prize is an annual event that brings together the comedy community to recognize comedic excellence and impact, which aligns with Netflix’s reputation as the leading platform for comedy content. We’re thrilled to bring this fantastic night of honors, tributes, and comedy to Netflix.”
Previous recipients of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor include David Letterman, Jon Stewart, and Adam Sandler.