The Mark Twain Prize for American Humor May Be a Tad More Political Than Expected

Tina Fey was named the 2010 winner of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. She has a history with the Second City Improv troupe in Chicago. Other historic comedic icons to come from that group include John Belushi, Gilda Radner and Mike Myers. She went on to become a cast member at Saturday Night Live and eventually head writer where she anchored the Weekend Update desk.

Following her success with SNL, she went on to produce, write and star in the Emmy-award winning sitcom 30 Rock, where she stars along side Alec Baldwin. She has also been in a number of comedic feature films. This being said, the award may have come a tad early.

This is not to say that at some date down the road she would not have been an ideal candidate for the award. Rather at this time, in comparison to past winners, it seems she is still the rookie of the group. Perhaps all the more power to her. Or perhaps, power is more what this award is about.

According to the Kennedy Center Mark Twain Prize for Humor Award website:

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. As a social commentator, satirist and creator of characters, Samuel Clemens was a fearless observer of society, who startled many while delighting and informing many more with his uncompromising perspective of social injustice and personal folly.

Whether or not this aptly describes Fey's work to date could make for good debate. However, one can not ignore the monumental talents that have yet to be recognized for their contributions in this vein. Names such as Mike Nichols, Rob Reiner, Woody Allen and Mel Brooks to name just a few. It is obviously a subjective determination but the amount of work and quality churned out by this small group seem to make Fey appear as if she has not even yet begun to shine.

No doubt Fey will go on to continue to make great contributions in the world of entertainment and possibly in comedy as well. Though she may at some later date made an even better candidate for this award, it would seem there are still many that should be given consideration over choices that would seem to have more political pull at the moment.

Congratulations to Fey for her accomplishments. Here is to hoping that others who have contributed volumes to the historical and cultural fiber of humor in the country be recognized for the laughs they shared and who paved the way so that those like Fey could have their day in the sun.