George Carlin Gets One of Comedy's Highest Honors

Now that he's gone from our world, George Carlin has received something he never did while he was with us: a respectable prize for his comedy. Carlin was awarded the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in Washington, D.C. this week. Carlin died in June at age 71, and the announcement of the award was made before his passing. PBS plans to air the ceremony later this year.

On hand to celebrate the award were some of comedy's most luminous stars, including Jon Stewart, Denis Leary, Lily Tomlin, Lewis Black, and Garry Shandling. Carlin's commitment to freedom of speech was recognized, as was his willingness to push the envelope, and his hard working ethic.

Carlin's 50-year career in comedy included 4 Grammys, 23 comedy albums, a slew of books and HBO specials, and the honor of being the first host ever on Saturday Night Live.