Kennedy Center Tribute to Carol Burnett Airs This Sunday
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Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic(WASHINGTON) — Last month, the Kennedy Center saluted Carol Burnett as the 2013 recipient of its Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. You’ll be able to watch the star-studded event this Sunday night, when it airs on PBS stations nationwide at 8 p.m. Eastern time.
The gala, taped in Washington, D.C., on October 20, featured appearances by Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Martin Short, Julie Andrews, Carol Burnett Show co-star Tim Conway, and other celebrities.
Burnett was more than happy to accept the honor. She recently told ABC News Radio, “It’s a thrill and it’s about humor and being funny and everything and I appreciate the recognition.”
During the interview, the 80-year-old legend also reflected on how difficult it was for female comediennes such as herself and Lucille Ball to break through during the earlier days of television. She commented, “I don’t think it’s as tough as it was when Lucy got started, or when I got started, no, because there are just so many women out there doing it. And I just think it’s just wonderful.”
The Mark Twain Prize is presented annually to comedians “who have had an impact on American society in ways similar to” its namesake. Previous recipients include Fey, Ellen DeGeneres, Will Ferrell, Bill Cosby, George Carlin, Billy Crystal, Steve Martin, and Richard Pryor.
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