Eddie Murphy has been selected to receive the 51st AFI Life Achievement Award. The American Film Institute will honor him at a gala tribute at the Dolby Theater in Hollywood on April 18.

Considered the highest honor for a career in film, the AFI Life Achievement Award is given to a single honoree each year, recognizing talent that has furthered the cinematic arts, demonstrated longevity and been acknowledged by scholars, critics, peers and audiences alike.

Murphy certainly fits the criteria, with a massive body of work as an actor and comedian. The most commercially successful African American actor of all time, Murphy is among the top five box office performers in the industry’s history. Some of his most iconic hits on the big screen include “Beverly Hills Cop,” “Coming to America,

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