Eddie Murphy did his first comedy skit in over 30 years, and he even included Bill Cosby in the short monologue.
On Sunday, Murphy was this year’s recipient of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.
“The Mark Twain Prize recognizes people who have had an impact on American society in ways similar to the distinguished 19th century novelist and essayist best known as Mark Twain,” said the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in its description of the prize.
The prize, first awarded in 1998 to Richard Pryor, highlights social criticism and insightful observation brought out by humor. Among previous recipients are Jonathan Winters, Lily Tomlin, Will Ferrell and Ellen DeGeneres.
“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from the Kennedy Center and to join the distinguished list of past recipients of this award,” Murphy said according to a statement from the Kennedy Center.
“It’s going to be great!” the comedian posted to his official Facebook feed before the ceremony. The post included a picture of Mark Twain with a quote: “It’s easier to fool people than to convince them that they have been fooled.”
Bill Cosby also received the award in 2009, and Murphy, well-known for his impressions of famous people, broke into his Cosby voice and satirized the comedian.
