Thursday, April 02, 2009

COSBY GETS HONORED WITH MARK TWAIN PRIZE


Bill Cosby is scheduled to receive the Kennedy Center’s Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.
The presentation of the award and accompanying festivities will be staged Oct. 26 at the center’s Concert Hall, according to Variety.

Cosby will be honored because “his groundbreaking brand of humor” and other accomplishments have made him one of America’s most beloved comedians, said Kennedy Center chairman Stephen A. Schwarzman.

Twain Prize recognizes individuals who have impacted American society in ways similar to the distinguished 19th century novelist and essayist. In addition to his extensive career as an entertainer and TV star, Cosby has authored numerous books, including “Fatherhood” and “Time Flies.” His contributions of time and money to educational causes are also well known.

Cosby received a Kennedy Center Honor in 1998 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in July 2002.