Comedy Gives Back to Honor Marc Maron
The nonprofit will present its inaugural Richard Lewis Humor & Humanity Award to the comedian at a Los Angeles gala.
Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Comedy
Comedy Gives Back will present Marc Maron with the inaugural Richard Lewis Humor & Humanity Award at a gala on November 15, 2026, at Hollywood Improv in Los Angeles. The award honors the late comedian Richard Lewis, who died in February 2024 at age 76.
Why it matters
The gala honors Richard Lewis's legacy and his commitment to uplifting fellow comedians, a cause central to the nonprofit's work. The event also recognizes Maron's long career in comedy and podcasting.
Marc Maron launched the podcast WTF With Marc Maron in 2009 and stepped away from it after 16 years. The source does not provide attendance figures or ticket sales for the gala.
The players
Comedy Gives Back
A nonprofit organization founded by Jodi Lieberman, Amber J. Lawson, and Zoe Friedman that supports comedians with financial aid, mental health resources, and addiction recovery support.
Marc Maron
An American comedian and podcaster who launched WTF With Marc Maron in 2009 and stars in the series Stick.
Richard Lewis
A comedian who died in February 2024 and was an early supporter and board member of Comedy Gives Back.
Jeff Garlin
A comedian and actor who will host the Richard Lewis Humor & Humanity Gala.
The details
Comedy Gives Back, a nonprofit founded by Jodi Lieberman, Amber J. Lawson, and Zoe Friedman, provides financial assistance, mental health resources, and addiction recovery support for comedians. Jeff Garlin will host the gala, and Nick Kroll will present, with HBO and the Johnny Carson Foundation sponsoring the event.
Timeline
February 2024: Richard Lewis dies at age 76.
2009: Marc Maron launches WTF With Marc Maron.
November 15, 2026: Richard Lewis Humor & Humanity Gala takes place at Hollywood Improv.
Industry Dynamics
The gala, sponsored by HBO and the Johnny Carson Foundation, reflects how established comedy institutions continue to back support networks for working comedians. Such events tie philanthropic recognition to the careers of prominent figures in the field.
Attendees and supporters can see the honorees and presenters at the November 15 gala at Hollywood Improv in Los Angeles. The event is a fundraising and recognition evening rather than a public performance open to all.
The takeaway
Support for working comedians often depends on organizations like Comedy Gives Back, which address financial, mental health, and recovery needs that the industry does not always cover. Following such efforts can show how the comedy community looks after its own.
What happens next
The Richard Lewis Humor & Humanity Gala takes place on November 15, 2026, at Hollywood Improv in Los Angeles.
Further reading
Explore more in Comedy coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Hollywood Reporter.
