MTV Movie Awards 2016: Melissa McCarthy to receive Comedic Genius honor

Melissa McCarthy has been a bridesmaid, a spy, and a Ghostbuster — and now she’s a genius.

The multitalented actress will be honored with the Comedic Genius Award at this year’s MTV Movie Awards, the network announced Wednesday morning. She is the third person and first woman to receive the award, following Kevin Hart (who will be back this year to co-host the ceremony with Dwayne Johnson) and Will Ferrell.

“We love Melissa for her performances but she also writes, produces and directs comedy, so this award is incredibly well deserved,” Movie Awards executive producer Casey Patterson said in the announcement. “The most exciting thing about Melissa is how brave she is.”

McCarthy got her start at the Groundlings Theatre and had breakout roles in Bridesmaids and the sitcom Mike & Molly. Her other credits include St. Vincent, Spy, and upcoming movies The Boss and Ghostbusters. She previously won Movie Awards for best comedic performance and best WTF moment, both for Bridesmaids.

The MTV Movie Awards air April 10 at 8 p.m. ET.