Bill Cosby Himself

Monday night Bill Cosby was the guest of honor and recipient of the prestigious Kennedy Center Mark Twain Award. Cosby was the focus of tributes from Jerry Seinfeld, Chris Rock, Dick Gregory, George Lopez, Sinbad, and many other admiring celebrities who have been fortunate enough to work with the legendary story-teller.

Hailed as a ground-breaker Cosby’s wholesome and hysterical stand-up comedy and subsequent television and movie career opened the door for a generation of comedians. The 90 minute event, which airs November 4th on PBS nation wide, was a combination of clips from Cosby’s career and personal tributes from the celebrity friends who have been inspired by the comic legend.

Bill Cosby is the quintessential story teller, with incredulous tales of everyday life that transport his audience into his brilliant mind. Known best for his unique mannerisms and range of voices that paint a vibrant picture of the tale he is spinning. Cosby went on to craft one of the most beloved sitcoms in television history. Premiering in an time when the entertainment industry was rarely shedding light on the lives of African American families, Cosby brought his vision of a successful professional couple facing the trials and tribulations of raising a family of five in a modern world. The country fell in love with Cosby and his show, and we’ve all been paying attention to this Humorist ever since.

The Mark Twain Award was established in 1998 and is considered one of the highest forms of recognition for a humorist, comedian, or writer. Mark Twain was an American Icon who captured the voice of a generation and the attention of a nation. Two things that can also be said of the great Bill Cosby.