Comic hailed for pioneer spirit

American comedy trailblazer Carl Reiner has won an award for his groundbreaking work.

He has been honoured with the first Steve Allen Pioneer of Comedy award, named after the comedy the legend and talk show creator.

Allen's widow, actress Jayne Meadows, presented the award at the Las Vegas Comedy Festival, but Reiner was not there to collect it. He sent a taped message instead.

Meadows said: "I am thrilled and proud to be here for this creative festival. Steve devoted his whole career to the development of young talent.

"He would say, 'I merely introduced them, their talent made them stars.'"

During his career, Reiner formed a double act with Mel Brooks, performing such sketches as the classic 2,000-year-old man; created such hit sitcoms as the Dick Van Dyke Show; and directed a string of movies including Steve Martin's The Jerk.

At the same festival, George Carlin was named comedian of the year, and veteran Hollywood actress Debbie Reynolds was presented with a lifetime achievement award.

Published: 10 Sep 2002