Long Beach's Billy Crystal Named Kennedy Center Honoree

WASHINGTON, DC — Long Beach's native son Billy Crystal is getting recognized as a Kennedy Center Honoree.

The veteran comic and actor said about the career achievement:

"I am overwhelmed to be part of this fantastic group of artists. I started performing when I was five years old, making my parents and family laugh," Crystal told the Kennedy Center.

Crystal, 75, is known for a string of comedies including "City Slickers" and "When Harry Met Sally."

His autobiographical one-man Broadway show "700 Sundays" was about growing up in Long Beach and the estimated time he had before his father died.

"It has been a thrilling lifetime of performing in so many different arenas and my heart is full of gratitude to the Kennedy Center, my wife Janice, my children and grandchildren, our family and friends, and all the amazing people I’ve had the pleasure to work with. And finally, of course, my wonderful fans," Crystal added.

He also had a stint in the mid-1980s on "Saturday Night Live," where his catchphrase "You Look Marvelous" was heard everywhere.

Crystal is also beloved for hosting the Academy Awards. Between 1990 and 2012, Crystal was the master of ceremonies nine times. His "signature" opening number incorporating each year's Best Picture nominees was a favorite. Crystal won three Emmy Awards for his work at the Oscars.

Joining Crystal in the 2023 class are actress and rapper Queen Latifah; pop singer Dionne Warwick; Barry Gibb, the last remaining brother from the Bee Gees; and opera singer Renee Fleming.

The show will be taped in December for broadcast later that month.