Mark McKinney has developed an extensive career both in front of and behind the camera since his Kids in the Hall days, often working as actor, writer and producer of TV shows.Mark McKinney has developed an extensive career both in front of and behind the camera since his Kids in the Hall days, often working as actor, writer and producer of TV shows. (Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)

Writer, comedian and former Kids in the Hall member Mark McKinney will receive the Peter Ustinov Award next month, organizers of the Banff World Television Festival announced on Wednesday.

The honour, presented as part of the annual industry conference, recognizes comedy excellence. Past winners include John Cleese, Dame Edna, Martin Short, Tracy Ullman, Bob Newhart and Rick Mercer.

“I am humbled to find myself in such great company with the previous Sir Peter Ustinov Award recipients — all comedians I have long admired. I am thrilled,” McKinney said in a statement.

He will receive the award at a ceremony on June 8. The festival, celebrating its 30th edition, runs June 7-10.

Though still often associated with the beloved Canadian sketch comedy troupe Kids in the Hall, McKinney has built up a strong resume both in front of and behind the camera.

His credits include co-creating, writing and starring in the Canadian theatre world's satirical miniseries Slings and Arrows as well as writing and acting in the much-touted but short-lived NBC drama Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip.

His film roles range from the Kids in the Hall film Brain Candy to Guy Maddin's The Saddest Music in the World.

Most recently, McKinney has returned behind the camera as producer, senior story editor and showrunner for the dark Canadian TV comedy Less Than Kind.

"McKinney’s original characters and unconventional sketches have become a part of pop culture," said festival head Peter Vamos.

"Whether as creator, producer or actor in many memorable comedic productions, Mark has made an impressive contribution to the international film and television comedy landscape."

Earlier this month, festival organizers announced that Canadian-born Victor Garber — known for his extensive credits from the worlds of TV, film and theatre — will receive an Award of Excellence in recognition of his "career accomplishments and his extraordinary contributions to the television industry."

With files from The Canadian Press