Mark Twain Award rescinded

Bill Cosby has been stripped of his Mark Twain Award for American Humour.

Washington’s Kennedy Center, which hands out the annual award, has released a statement rescinding the accolade which he won in 2009. 

He was the 12th person to receive the annual honour. Which has also been won by Ellen DeGeneres, Bill Murray, Eddie Murphy, Tina Fey, George Carlin  Bob Newhart and Richard Pryor, among others.

The statement said: ‘As a result of Mr Cosby’s recent criminal conviction, the board concluded that his actions have overshadowed the very career accomplishments these distinctions from the Kennedy Center intend to recognise.’

The Motion Picture Academy which hands out the Oscars, has also voted to kick Cosby out, while honorary degrees from  both Yale University and Temple University have been withdrawn.

Cosby, 80, faces up to 30 years in prison after being found guilty of three counts of sexual assault against Andrea Constand, 14 years ago. He is set to be sentenced in July.

Published: 8 May 2018