Comedian and actor Bill Bellamy will receive the Icon Award at the 2026 Whats Funny Comedy Festival in Chicago, in recognition of his decades-long impact on stand-up comedy and entertainment. The festival, co-founded by Knowledge Beckom and "Get Out" actor Lil Rel Howery, aims to spotlight Black and Brown comedians and establish Chicago as a leading hub for comedy discovery.

The festival's third edition runs from 19 to 26 September across several Chicago venues, featuring more than 50 comedians from 20 cities. Bellamy will be presented with the award on 21 September at the inaugural Whats Funny Today Show Chicago Comedy Legends ceremony, alongside 15 other Chicago comedians being honoured for shaping the city's comedy scene, followed by a live podcast taping. Other highlights include a live recording of Howery's next stand-up special on 20 September and a master class led by Howery.