Eddie Murphy to Receive AFI Life Achievement Award

The American Film Institute (AFI) will honor actor and comedy icon Eddie Murphy with its 51st Life Achievement Award, recognizing his significant contributions to film over five decades. The AFI Life Achievement Award is considered America's highest honor for a career in film. 

The tribute gala is scheduled for April 18, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. 

Kathleen Kennedy, Chair of the AFI Board of Trustees, noted Murphy's impact as an American icon. Murphy began his career on Saturday Night Live and is known for roles in films like Beverly Hills Cop and Coming to America, as well as voicing Donkey in the Shrek franchise. 

Murphy will join a distinguished group as the fourth Black recipient of the award, following Sidney Poitier, Morgan Freeman, and Denzel Washington. Previous honorees include Francis Ford Coppola, Nicole Kidman, and Julie Andrews.