Dave Chappelle Receives The Key to D.C. & Leaves Behind His Emmy at Former High School

Comedian Dave Chappelle received the key to his hometown of Washington D.C. from Mayor Muriel Bowser.

“Some very special native Washingtonians have dedicated their lives to making Washington D.C. better, and they’ve gone above and beyond to show others what makes the nation’s capital the best city in the world,” said Mayor Bowser. “Dave Chappelle reminds us what it means to live a life filled with purpose, meaning, and laughter.”

The Key to the City is considered the highest honor any city can give and Chappelle received it in recognition of his 30 years of comedic genius, artistic merit, perseverance, and upholding D.C.’s values.

Chappelle was recently awarded an Emmy Award for his guest hosting appearance on “Saturday Night Live.” He has decided to leave the trophy with the students and staff at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts, the school he graduated from in 1991.

“I want you guys to have this,” Chappelle said. “Just so you know that even though the odds are widely against you, this can happen for you if you guys just stay true to yourselves. So this is the people’s Emmy, and every once in a while, just take a look at it and just know I started earning this Emmy at this school.”