Top comedy honour for Bill Cosby

The award honours people who have had an impact on society in ways similar to Twain

US comedian Bill Cosby is to be awarded a top comedy prize for his "groundbreaking" humour.

The 71-year-old will be given the Mark Twain Prize for American Humour, named after the novelist and satirist, at a televised tribute dinner in October.

The Cosby Show star said he fell asleep when he read Twain's work early in life but later found it an inspiration.

Richard Pryor was the first to get the prize in 1998 while recent recipients include Steve Martin and Billy Crystal.

'Beloved'

In a statement Cosby said that his mother used to read The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn to him and his brother when they were little.

The star continued: "I would like to apologize to Mr Twain for falling asleep hundreds of times, but he should understand that I was only four."

A spokesperson for the award jury said Cosby "is truly one of America's most beloved comedians, a favourite of television audiences around the world".

Cosby started his career in stand-up before landing a role in the TV programme I Spy.

He became a household name as the avuncular Dr Cliff Huxtable in The Cosby Show, a TV programme which he created. He later produced the successful spin-off, A Different World.

He has released nine comedy albums, six of which are platinum selling in America.

At the televised ceremony, Cosby will be presented with a bronze bust of Mark Twain.