Pete Davidson on Adam Sandler | 2023 Mark Twain Prize

Watch the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor celebrating Adam Sandler on CNN.com or CNNgo.

The Kennedy Center's Mark Twain Prize, which is named to honor one of the world’s greatest humorists, was awarded to Adam Sandler at a gala performance featuring some of the biggest names in comedy -- including Chris Rock, Conan O'Brien, Ben Stiller, Dana Carvey, Pete Davidson, Drew Barrymore, Jennifer Anniston, Idina Menzel, David Spade, and more -- on March 19, 2023, and aired nationally on CNN on March 26, 2023.

The Mark Twain Prize for American Humor recognizes individuals who have had an impact on American society in ways similar to the distinguished 19th-century novelist and essayist Samuel Clemens, best known as Mark Twain. As a social commentator, satirist, and creator of characters, Clemens was a fearless observer of society, who startled many while delighting and informing many more with his uncompromising perspective on social injustice and personal folly.

“Adam Sandler has entertained audiences for over three decades with his films, music, and his tenure as a fan favorite cast member on SNL,” said Kennedy Center President Deborah F. Rutter about this year’s recipient. “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.”

#MarkTwainPrize #AdamSandler #petedavidson #kennedycenter #cnn

[unverifiedusername]

"He was wrong. I'm not okay." Classic.

[porcelainthunder]

Whats amazing with every one of these people is that they don't talk only talk about the comedy or his career, but focus mostly on what a genuine good person and friend Adam is. If only Norm and Farley could have been there, too.

[monicabrandt]

Pete is Pete. I appreciate his transparency and can see why he looks up to Adam. He kind of reminds me of a young Adam. Nothing but the best for them both!

[poja]

This turned out to be the best comedy show of the year.

[scottmatyac]

All jokes aside about Pete, it's very obvious how much of an impact that little moment had on him. Beautiful!

[tristincrain]

The pride and shine in Adam's eyes when he understood the dedication Pete had when he was able to make new comedic content on the spot while admitting a lot of his jokes were taken already... priceless

[jq]

Wow - far more restrained than I ever expected from Pete. He must really love the guy. Cool.

[cizia]

"Please don't die because Judd is gonna make a fifty hours documentary about you!" Best joke.

[Brand.on]

"They took the shaba-da-doo's" was definitely something adam would say.

[MOUNTAINEER]

Say what you want about Pete, he's pretty consistent when it come to monologues.

[erichowell]

Adam has the perfect view on life. It's one simple rule and it is easy follow.
Treat everyone as you want to be treated.

[HD-Tech]

Glad Pete took some time out of his job as a long shoreman to stop by with some kind words

[creed]

I have never met him but I could feel that he was just a down to earth nice guy and all of these people that spoke at the awards just confirm it . Hope the Sandman lives for many years to come !!!

[Adrian-zdcs]

His Judd Apatow joke at the end was perfect.
We love and appreciate you too Pete 😆

[reiver]

Pete is so underrated. This was Pete’s second MTP speech.

[JM-zkou]

Adam Sandler sounds like a truly good human and better friend. Everyone is sharing how much Adam truly means to them, not statements about his career. God/the universe and his mother must be so proud of him.

[marcushillerstrom]

Pete's wardrobe guy was like, you are a tripple XL right?

Loved the jokes, the "he was wrong, I'm not alright" was really good.

[hutch]

"The only rich comedian over 50 who doesn't need us to know what he thinks about trans people."
That was such an underrated gem. (And before any of you get triggered, I'm not here to debate trans people. I just liked the joke.)

[chaberio]

As someone who just turned 30 Adam Sandler has been a staple of comedy gold. Call it ill humor or cheap jokes as some may say but to do the things he was doing with the self-deprecating humor and bravery that most had never seen was incredible. Who hasn't watched or quoted Billy Madison & Happy Gilmore. Big Daddy & Little Nicky, as obviously self-deprecating attempts he began to open himself up to the world that he might have some tools in his bag we never expected. THAT, is what I loved most about Sandman. He could of kept on delivering hit or misses into the 2000s but with Anger Management & Punch, Drunk Love/ Click as well. He defined himself not only as a standout performer with serious drama chops but someone with the same theme he relayed in his very first film...A guy who we all would get along with and has tremendous empathy. Well deserved award for him.

[caydenseely]

“Only rich comedian over 50 who doesn’t need us to know what he thinks about trans people” 😅 truth lol, I love seeing the friendship/mentorship between Pete Davidson and older comedians like Adam, John Mulaney, etc