Will Ferrell wins Mark Twain Prize for humour

Funnyman Will Ferrell, whose slapstick antics and comedic impressions have won overa legion of fans, is the latest recipient of the Mark Twain Prize.

The star of film, television and web videos was named the 2011 winner on Thursday. The annual prize recognizes comedy figures who have influenced U.S. society in ways similar to the 19th century novelist and essayist.

In a written statement, Ferrell said he is honoured by the recognition and will begin cultivating a "Mark Twain-esque moustache" for the fall gala where he will receive the award.

Born in California, Ferrell got his start in show business as a sportscaster, but decided to shift gears to try acting and stand-up comedy. Soon afterward, he joined The Groundlings, the influential Los Angeles improv troupe that helped launch the careers of Conan O'Brien, Paul Rubens, Pat Morita, Lisa Kudrow and Jon Lovitz.

Many Groundling alums went on to fame on TV's Saturday Night Live, including Phil Hartman, Jimmy Fallon, Cheri Oteri, Chris Parnell and Kristen Wiig.

Ferrell was among those who graduated from The Groundlings to SNL. Through seven seasons on the weekly comedy show, he honed his arsenal of impressions (including as former president George W. Bush and singer Neil Diamond) and was nominated for two Emmy awards.

A subsequent move to film resulted in notable performances, including in Old School, Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy, Stranger Than Fiction and Megamind. He also appeared on Broadway in the Tony-nominated one-man show You're Welcome America. A Final Night with George W. Bush.

With longtime collaborator Adam McKay, Ferrell founded Funnyordie.com in 2007. The site, with its mix of celebrity-created comedy videos as well as amateur offerings, is regularly the source of viral videos.

Ferrell will receive the 14th annual Mark Twain Prize at Washington's Kennedy Center on Oct. 23, with the actor likely to be roasted and feted by equally famous colleagues throughout the evening. The ceremony will also be recorded for broadcast.

First awarded in 1998, the Twain Prize is considered the top humour honour in the U.S. Past recipients have included Richard Pryor, Lily Tomlin, Steve Martin,George Carlin, former SNL alumTina Fey and show creator Lorne Michaels.