• Bill Maher to receive the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor on June 28, 2026.
• The Kennedy Center confirms the award after initial claims it was "fake news" from the White House.
• Past recipients include Conan O'Brien, Dave Chappelle, and Tina Fey.
• Maher described the award as "like an Emmy, except I win."
• Event to be streamed on Netflix at a later date.

Bill Maher, the acclaimed comedian and host of HBO's "Real Time with Bill Maher," will officially receive the 27th Mark Twain Prize for American Humor on June 28, 2026, at the Kennedy Center, following clarification amid initial denials from the White House labeling the news as "fake." Maher expressed that it is "humbling to get anything named for a man who's been thrown out of as many school libraries as Mark Twain," indicating his appreciation for the honor despite political controversies, according to CBS News and NPR.

Initially, the White House denied reports from The Atlantic about Maher receiving the award, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stating it was "fake news." However, the Kennedy Center confirmed his selection, dismissing earlier assertions. Roma Daravi, the Kennedy Center's vice president of public relations, reiterated Maher's significant impact on American discourse, noting, "For nearly three decades, the Mark Twain Prize has celebrated some of the greatest minds in comedy," according to Reuters and Los Angeles Times.

The Mark Twain ceremony is particularly significant this year as the Kennedy Center prepares for a two-year renovation following its closure on July 4, shortly after the event. Previous honorees include comedy legends such as Richard Pryor and Whoopi Goldberg, showcasing the award's prestige in the world of comedy. Maher humorously compared the Twain Prize to an Emmy, indicating "it's like an Emmy, except I win," underscoring his comedic perspective even amidst political scrutiny, according to Los Angeles Times and Reuters.

Maher’s history of outspoken criticism towards both political parties, particularly President Trump, has contributed to a complex relationship. After dining with Trump, Maher remarked on the uniqueness of their interactions, highlighting a form of respect and self-awareness he perceived, which stirred discussions about his stance within the political comedy landscape. Maher’s ability to provoke thought while entertaining places him in a distinguished category among contemporary comedians, as he receives the Mark Twain Prize on June 28, which will later be streamed on Netflix, according to NPR and Reuters.