Veteran actor and comedian Eddie Murphy has been honoured with the prestigious Life Achievement Award by the American Film Institute (AFI), in recognition of a career that has shaped comedy and cinema for decades.
The award was presented at a glittering ceremony held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Saturday night, drawing tributes from some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry.
Murphy, who recently marked his 65th birthday, accepted the honour with his signature humour, joking about the size of the award and drawing laughter from the audience. He also expressed appreciation for receiving the recognition while still active in the industry.
The evening featured performances and heartfelt tributes celebrating Murphy’s enduring influence. Among the highlights was a musical performance by Jennifer Hudson, who revisited songs from the film Dreamgirls, in which she starred alongside Murphy. Hudson won an Academy Award for her role in the film, while Murphy earned a nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
Leading comedians, including Chris Rock, Dave Chappelle, Martin Lawrence, and Kenan Thompson, paid tribute to Murphy’s groundbreaking contributions to comedy and his role in opening doors for a new generation of Black performers.
Thompson described Murphy as more than an influence, noting that his success demonstrated that young performers could take bold creative risks and leave a lasting legacy.
Actress Da’Vine Joy Randolph also reflected on working with Murphy on Dolemite Is My Name, describing the experience as invaluable and praising his mentorship and professionalism.
Murphy’s career spans some of Hollywood’s most iconic films, including Beverly Hills Cop, Coming to America, The Nutty Professor, and Norbit. He has also reached global audiences through voice roles such as Donkey in Shrek and Mushu in Mulan, further cementing his legacy across generations.
Founded in 1967, the American Film Institute recognises individuals who have made significant contributions to the art of film. Past recipients of the Life Achievement Award include Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep.
This year’s ceremony will be streamed globally on Netflix on May 31, marking the first time the event will be available on the platform.
Murphy’s recognition underscores his lasting impact on entertainment, celebrating a career defined by innovation, influence, and enduring popularity.
