Bill Maher to Receive Mark Twain Prize Amid Tensions at Kennedy Center

Bill Maher, a frequent critic of President Trump, will take the stage at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts to receive the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor on Sunday. This event occurs amidst a period of upheaval for the arts institution, which recently removed Trump’s name from its marble facade following a federal judge’s order. The Kennedy Center is facing legal disputes concerning the president’s influence on the institution.

A self-described ‘old-school liberal,’ Maher is known for his critical stance on Trump and the Republican Party during his HBO show ‘Real Time With Bill Maher.’ He has recently characterized Trump as an emperor, criticized his approval ratings, and condemned his deal with Iran, calling Trump’s actions racist, misogynistic, anti-democratic, and corrupt.

Maher’s reception of the award comes at a time when many artists are hesitant to associate with the Kennedy Center due to Trump’s chairmanship. The event, slated to premiere on Netflix on July 21, will see celebrities like Louis C.K., Jay Leno, Whitney Cummings, Woody Harrelson, John Mellencamp, Arianna Huffington, and Stephen A. Smith honor and roast Maher.