Key facts
- Comedian Bill Maher will receive the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.
- The Kennedy Center has been involved in a legal battle over President Donald Trump's actions regarding its leadership and facade.
- A judge ordered Trump's name removed from the building and blocked a planned closure.
- Maher and Trump have a history of public disagreements.
- The White House initially denied reports of Maher receiving the award.
Comedian Bill Maher is set to receive the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor on Sunday, an event taking place amidst significant political and legal turmoil surrounding the Kennedy Center.
The Kennedy Center, a traditionally nonpartisan institution, has become a focal point of political contention following President Donald Trump's actions. After his return to the White House in January 2025, Trump reportedly replaced much of the center's leadership with allies and was named chairman. His name was subsequently added to the building's facade, sparking a legal challenge.
U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper intervened, ruling in May that Trump's name was illegally affixed to the building and ordering its removal. The judge also halted plans for a two-year renovation that would have closed the center. While Trump's name has been taken down, the affected area remains covered by a tarp, and the full closure is on hold.
Maher's selection for the award is notable given his often contentious relationship with Trump. The two have a history of public disputes, including a $5 million lawsuit Trump filed against Maher in 2013, which was later dropped. More recently, they exchanged barbs on social media and Maher's television show regarding a dinner meeting.
Adding to the drama, the White House initially pushed back against reports of Maher receiving the award, with communications director Steven Cheung and press secretary Karoline Leavitt labeling the news as 'fake news.' However, following further discussions, the award is proceeding as planned.
Several celebrities expected to attend the ceremony, including Arianna Huffington and sports analyst Stephen A. Smith, have also had public disagreements with Trump. The award ceremony itself is scheduled to take place before the Kennedy Center's Concert Hall hosts its final event, 'The Freedom Gathering: A Musical Celebration,' on July 3.