Actor-comedian Adam Sandler will be honoured with the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, according to a statement released by the Kennedy Center president, Deborah F. Rutter. The award is given each year to a comedian who has left a deep impression on their field and has helped to push the art form forward.

Sandler will be the 24th recipient of the prestigious honour, which was first awarded in 1998. Stand-up comedian Richard Pryor was the first recipient. 

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Rutter’s statement read, “Adam Sandler has entertained audiences for over three decades with his films, music, and his tenure as a fan favorite cast member on ‘SNL,’” further adding, “Adam has created characters that have made us laugh, cry, and cry from laughing. I am looking forward to a laughter-filled evening like no other as we celebrate his career at a ceremony that is sure to bring together the best in comedy.”

Sandler is a successful actor whose films have grossed around $3 billion according to CNN. Despite his box office success, a number of Sandler’s films were critically panned. He is the second-most nominated actor (after Sylvester Stallone) for the Golden Raspberry Awards, which are given each year to the worst underachievers in the cinematic art form.

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The Mark Twain Award is widely considered the most prestigious award an American comedian can receive. Past recipients of the prize include the likes of Tina Fey, Dave Chappelle, David Letterman, Jon Stewart, Jay Lano, and Jerry Seinfeld.

The award is not usually given posthumously, but one exception was made in the case of George Carlin. The scathing cultural commentator died after the announcement of him winning the prize, but before the ceremony itself.