THE MARQUEE
Eddie Murphy is officially taking his seat among the legends of cinema. The American Film Institute (AFI) has announced that the comedy icon will receive the 51st AFI Life Achievement Award, the highest honor for a career in film. The star-studded gala tribute is scheduled to take place on April 18, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.
For the first time in the history of the award, fans worldwide can watch the ceremony on Netflix. The streaming giant will premiere the special, titled The 51st AFI Life Achievement Award: A Tribute to Eddie Murphy, on May 31, 2026. This move marks a significant shift for the AFI, which has traditionally partnered with cable networks like TNT and TBS for its broadcast specials.
The honor cements Murphy's long-standing relationship with Netflix, following the success of his films Dolemite Is My Name and Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F. Kathleen Kennedy, Chair of the AFI Board of Trustees, praised Murphy for his "profound and lasting impact" on the industry. The comedian joins an elite roster of past recipients that includes Nicole Kidman, Meryl Streep, and George Lucas.
