Bill Burr Shuts Down Reporters at Conan O’Brien’s Twain Prize Event

Bill Burr had no time for loaded questions on the red carpet before Conan O’Brien’s Mark Twain Prize ceremony. When a reporter brought up past comments and asked Burr to “clarify,” the comedian fired back fast.

“If you were reading up, I don’t think you read up on it,” Burr said. “I said what I felt about it. People took it that way.”

The reporter pushed again, but Burr shut it down. “No, I’m not going to just have some controversial moments so you can get clicks. I’m here for Conan. I’m not doing all of this.”

As the line of questioning continued—touching on Elon Musk, global warming, and even boycotts—Burr grew more direct. “I don’t watch the news. And I don’t think you should be asking a comedian. You’re a journalist.”

When the reporter tried to argue that comedians are “on top of current events,” Burr didn’t hold back. “No, no—that’s weak. You guys used to have balls.”

Burr made it clear: the red carpet was for honoring Conan, not baiting headlines. And once again, he proved he’s not afraid to call out the media—especially when they’re fishing for a viral soundbite.