Kevin Hart was honored on Sunday night with the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington. The event, filled with laughter and heartfelt tributes, showcased Hart’s immense impact on the world of comedy.
Stepping onto the stage amidst his signature pyrotechnics, Hart, 44, exuded his usual confidence, jokingly asking, “Can I pee?” following a touching tribute from fellow comedian Dave Chappelle. Hart’s presence, accompanied by his wife and four children, illuminated the stage as he graciously accepted the bust of Mark Twain from David M. Rubenstein, the retiring chairman of the Kennedy Center.
Hart becomes the 25th recipient of this esteemed award, joining the ranks of comedic legends celebrated by the Kennedy Center. Throughout his illustrious career spanning over two decades, Hart has captivated audiences with his electrifying performances, selling out arenas and even a football stadium in his hometown of Philadelphia. Chappelle, acknowledging Hart’s transformative influence on stand-up comedy, remarked, “You made me dream bigger, and you’re younger than me — it’s humiliating.”
Renowned for his tireless work ethic, Hart has seamlessly transitioned between stand-up, film, and television, starring in blockbuster hits like the “Jumanji” sequels, heartfelt dramedies such as “Fatherhood,” and comedic action films. Reflecting on his journey, Hart humbly expressed, “I fell in love with the idea of comedy. It made me say, ‘Oh, my God, I fell in love with something I can do for the rest of my life.’”
The star-studded ceremony featured a lineup of Hart’s peers and friends, including Chris Rock, J.B. Smoove, Jimmy Fallon, Jerry Seinfeld, Tiffany Haddish, and more, each offering their own tribute to the comedic icon. The Plastic Cup Boyz, Hart’s longtime collaborators, also paid homage to their friend’s enduring legacy.
In his emotional acceptance speech, Hart expressed gratitude for the support of his colleagues, emphasizing the significance of genuine relationships in his journey. “Thank you for showing up on a night that’s so dope, that could not be as dope without real relationships and real energy,” he shared, tears glistening in his eyes.
As Deborah F. Rutter, President of the Kennedy Center, remarked, “For over three decades, Kevin Hart has been a source of laughter across America and throughout the world.” Joining the ranks of comedic luminaries like Richard Pryor, Tina Fey, and Dave Chappelle, Hart’s contributions to the comedic landscape solidify his place among the greats.