Maher Offers Mark Twain Award to Trump

Bill Maher responded to reports that President Donald Trump attempted to prevent him from receiving the 2026 Mark Twain Prize for humor. During his opening monologue on 'Real Time With Bill Maher,' the host addressed the situation with characteristic wit. Maher stated that he has reached a compromise and will accept the award, with the intention of giving it directly to Trump. This agreement reportedly came after Trump's spokespeople initially claimed Maher was not going to receive the honor.

Maher also touched upon his complex relationship with the President, viewing Trump's move to block him as a way to keep their dynamic engaging. He acknowledged Trump's recent critical remarks, including calling Maher a 'jerk' and a 'lightweight ratings loser.' Maher playfully listed these insults, adding them to a list he claimed Trump signed during a White House dinner in 2025. He concluded his remarks by humorously accepting the award as a 'low-ratings lightweight' and other assorted insults.