The American Film Institute ( AFI ) Board of Trustees will bestow the 51st AFI Life Achievement Award to Eddie Murphy at the org’s Gala Tribute at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on April 18, 2026.

“Eddie Murphy is an American icon,” said Kathleen Kennedy, Chair of the AFI Board of Trustees. “A trailblazing force in the art forms of film, television and stand-up comedy, his versatility knows no bounds. Across five decades, his enduring impact on our culture has inspired artists and audiences alike, and AFI is proud to honor him with the 51 st AFI Life Achievement Award.”

Murphy follows in the footsteps of such recipients since 2013 as Francis Ford Coppola (honored earlier last year), Nicole Kidman, Julie Andrews, Denzel Washington, George Clooney, Diane Keaton, John Williams, Ste

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