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David Letterman to Receive Nation's Top Prize for Comedy

by Associated Press

   WASHINGTON --

   Longtime late-night host David Letterman has been honored with the
   nation's top prize for comedy.

   The Kennedy Center announced Tuesday that the 70-year-old Letterman is
   this year's recipient of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. He is
   the 20th humorist to receive the annual prize, which began in 1998.
   Last fall, he delivered a warm tribute on stage at the Kennedy Center
   as his frequent guest, Bill Murray, accepted the award.

   Letterman hosted more than 6,000 episodes of late-night television,
   starting in 1982 with NBC's "Late Night with David Letterman." He moved
   to CBS in 1993 and hosted "The Late Show" until his retirement two
   years ago.

   Letterman's irascible, independent streak inspired fierce loyalty from
   fans and critics.