The Kennedy Center is set to honor comedian Bill Maher with the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. This ceremony might be among the final major events at the venue for the next few years.

The Mark Twain Prize, first awarded in 1998, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to American humor. The center cited Maher’s influence on comedy through his “Politically Incorrect” show during the 1990s.

“Bill Maher has long influenced American comedy one politically incorrect joke at a time,” the Kennedy Center stated.

Prominent figures expected at the event include Woody Harrelson, Arianna Huffington, and Jay Leno. Former President Donald Trump, despite his recent influence over the Kennedy Center, will not attend.

A legal dispute over Trump’s influence has embroiled the Kennedy Center. After returning to office, Trump replaced much of the center’s leadership, named himself chairman, and added his name to the facade.

A U.S. District Judge recently ruled the addition of Trump’s name illegal and blocked the venue’s planned closure for renovation. The previous board’s programming plans are on hold following the judge’s orders.

The building’s façade, formerly bearing Trump’s name, now rests under a tarp. The final planned event for the Concert Hall is scheduled for July 3.

Maher’s awarding is significant given his contentious relationship with Trump. Their turbulent history includes Trump suing Maher in 2013 for breaching an alleged contract following remarks Maher made on “The Tonight Show.”

Maher and Trump clashed again when Trump criticized Maher after the comedian’s visit to the Oval Office. Maher refuted Trump’s claims, describing their interaction as civil and highlighting policies he respects.

Recently, Maher hosted Vice President JD Vance, discussing topics like the Iran conflict and election integrity, and criticized Republican election narratives during the conversation.

Drama surrounded Maher’s award announcement. The White House initially denied reports from The Atlantic regarding Maher’s honor. Despite pushback, subsequent dialogues led to confirming the award.

Other celebrities attending have mixed histories with Trump. Huffington and Trump have a long-standing feud, while Stephen A. Smith criticized Trump’s attendance at recent NBA Finals events.