Eddie Murphy has been named the 51st recipient of the American Film Institute (AFI) Life Achievement Award, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career. The award, considered America's highest honor for a career in film, will be presented at a Gala Tribute on April 18, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.
Kathleen Kennedy, chair of the AFI Board of Trustees, lauded Murphy as an "American icon" and a "trailblazing force" spanning film, television, and stand-up comedy. She emphasized his enduring impact on culture over five decades, inspiring artists and audiences alike.
Murphy's career began in stand-up comedy, achieving his big break at the age of 19 when he joined "Saturday Night Live" in 1980. His performances on SNL from 1980 to 1984 launched him to stardom. He transitioned to film with early successes like "48 Hrs.", "Trading Places", and "Beverly Hills Cop", which cemented his status as a leading comedic actor. These films showcased his comedic timing, action prowess, and ability to incorporate social commentary, setting him apart in the comedy landscape.
His career boasts a wide range of memorable roles in films like "Coming to America", "The Nutty Professor", "Dr. Dolittle", and the "Shrek" franchise, where he voiced the character of Donkey. Murphy’s ability to appeal to both adult and family audiences contributed to his box-office success, grossing over $3.8 billion in the United States and Canada. He is also among the top five box-office performers in the history of the motion picture business.
Murphy has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including a Golden Globe Award, a Grammy Award, and a Primetime Emmy Award. He also earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "Dreamgirls". In 2015, he was honored with the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor and in 2023, he received the Cecil B. DeMille Award.
The AFI Life Achievement Award recognizes individuals whose contributions have enriched American culture through motion pictures and television. Past recipients include an array of influential figures such as Francis Ford Coppola, Nicole Kidman, Julie Andrews, Denzel Washington, George Clooney, and Diane Keaton.
The annual ceremony serves as a fundraiser for AFI's education and arts initiatives. The organization is dedicated to championing film as an art form. This year, Canva, a visual communication platform, is the official sponsor of the Gala dinner.
In addition to receiving the AFI honor, Murphy is set to reprise his role as Donkey in "Shrek 5," scheduled for release in June 2027. He recently starred in "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F", and a documentary about his life, "Being Eddie," is currently streaming on Netflix.
