Poehler receives WSJ Magazine innovation honor for comedy
The actress credited comedy with saving her life during a speech at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.
By Ethan Cook ·
Amy Poehler accepted the WSJ. Magazine Innovator Award for comedy on Thursday evening at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. The honor recognized her contributions to the field, joining a list of recipients that included figures from music, film, sports, fashion, literature, and technology.
During her acceptance speech, Poehler emphasized the personal impact of humor. She stated that comedy has saved her life many times. She described the joy of laughing with and at people she loves, noting that these moments are central to her experience as a comedian.
The award was presented by Marcello Hernandez, a cast member of "Saturday Night Live." Hernandez praised Poehler's comedic abilities, referring to her as a gift and a baller in his remarks. Poehler responded by citing the colleagues she meets and works with as a primary reason for her continued involvement in comedy.
Poehler is known for her roles on "Saturday Night Live" and "Parks and Recreation." She also hosts the podcast "Good Hang," which she mentioned while discussing the role of art in daily life. Her speech focused on the value of escapism provided by creative work.
She argued against the common insistence on staying in the present moment. Poehler noted that many people prefer not to feel what they are currently feeling or be present with their life circumstances. She said that artists and storytellers help audiences transport themselves away from their immediate surroundings.
The ceremony included several other high-profile presenters and honorees. Rosalia received the award in music, while Martin McDonagh was honored in film. The Savannah Bananas represented sports, Matthieu Blazy represented fashion, Marlon James represented literature, and Demis Hassabis represented technology.
Additional celebrities attending the event included Dua Lipa, A$AP Rocky, Patti Smith, and Seth Meyers. The gathering took place at MoMA, a venue frequently used for major cultural awards in the city.
