The Aryavarth Express:
Los Angeles, March 29 — Comedian and television host Bill Maher has responded to comments from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding his selection for the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.
Speaking on his show Real Time with Bill Maher, Maher said he was “honored” to receive the award and expressed hope that Trump would attend the ceremony, traditionally held at the Kennedy Center.
Maher addressed earlier remarks from Trump’s team, which had dismissed news of the award as “fake news,” by joking that a “compromise” had been reached.
“They said I’d never get it. Now the compromise is—I get it, and then I give it to him,” Maher quipped, adding that he wasn’t upset and viewed the situation as part of an ongoing, long-standing dynamic between the two.
Referencing their history, Maher joked about past disputes and said he respects Trump’s attempts to “keep the game going,” emphasizing that engagement—even through criticism—is better than disengagement.
He also responded humorously to a series of past insults from Trump, listing them on air while still expressing gratitude for the honor.
“I am honored to accept the Mark Twain Award,” Maher said, despite being labeled in various ways by the former president.
Maher concluded by reiterating that he will attend the ceremony and invited Trump to join him, joking that the venue is “named after you now,” in a playful jab.
According to reports, the award presentation is scheduled for June 28, with officials from the Kennedy Center confirming Maher as this year’s recipient.
