David Spade 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 #davidspade #kennedycenter #cnn

[sianspherica]

Spade is one of the most effortlessly funny people in the entire entertainment industry.

[poja]

That last story has it all (including a perfect impression).

[mendoza]

There’s a generation of us that grew up on these dudes. I’m telling ya man it was a special time in comedy movies back in the 90s and early 2000s. Glad people like Sandler and Spade are still around to give us a little bit of the member berries.

[Pranks]

The quickness in Adam standing up speaks louder than words. Shows true friendship.

[nate]

Last story is most likely about Kate Spade. Adam seems like a genuine guy that cares about his friends

[BellinaNico]

David Spade is completely underrated. He’s always been one of my favorite comedians since childhood because of Joe Dirt of course 😂

[Mercurial_Phantom]

That first "speak from the heart" joke was absolute gold!

[ojacobsen]

Spade is one of my favorite standups. So quick on his feet.

[TheJiggs]

I love how Adam is truly loving the moment. These were my heros growing up, glad they are getting recognized.

[quayevano]

This is what best friendship is all about. You can tease each other all the time but that is just basically saying, "I love you."

[lb]

I have watched this so many times(mostly the ending).The whole world seems to go out with hard stuff like David endured, but Adam Sandler went in... So very touching. Made me cry.

[WesTheMarketer]

He’s so smooth in his delivery. And hilarious.

[BeazleyStudios]

Spade killed it but that Dr. Pepper joke...perfect.

[stephhinton]

Adam just being like "ahhhh" at every joke is the cutest 😍

[markwang]

'these ones are for your kids' is such a throwaway line but he delivers it so well. hilarious!

[jeffjones]

David Spade is soooo underrated. My goodness

[megangilmore]

This was so hilarious! What a funny and heartfelt tribute! That last story was heartbreaking but such a show of his character and how close he is with those around him. It takes a special friend to be able to get silly about serious topics and you both understand the love being shown. 💚

[HvyMetalEver]

Obviously we all wish Farley was still with us. Him being on stage for Sandman would have been absolutely hysterical.

[stevescott]

Spade killed it always but it doesn’t feel right without Norm there :(

[richb]

Spade has a unique style of humor and brings it full for Adam.