Award-winning comedian Dave Chappelle got candid about how comedy saved his life during his acceptance speech for the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humour. The award 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.
During his speech, Dave shared his love for what he does. He said in part: “I love my art form because I understand every practitioner of it, whether I agree with them or not I know where they’re coming from. They want to be heard, they got something to say, there’s something they notice. They just want to be understood. I love this genre, it saved my life.”
Dave also expressed his gratitude to his family and friends for their support. He said in part: “The thing I like the best of tonight, I saw so many people from different parts of my life. You guys have no idea how you inspire me.”
Dave Chappelle on how comedy saved his life. So well deserved!
“I have worked very hard in my life. The fact that anybody would recognize that outside of me and my family is amazing to me. And I’m very grateful, especially given my past experience.”
LAST NIGHT: Dave Chappelle receives prestigious Mark Twain Prize https://t.co/xFnNFyIliJ pic.twitter.com/QlhcLqf0xv
— The Hill (@thehill) October 29, 2019