By Hafiz Rahat Usama 
Comedy Legend Honored for Five Decades of Entertainment Impact
The American Film Institute (AFI) announced Friday that Eddie Murphy will receive its prestigious Life Achievement Award, recognizing his extraordinary contributions to film, television, and stand-up comedy. The 64-year-old entertainer will be honored during a gala tribute at Hollywood’s Dolby Theatre on April 18, becoming the 51st recipient of the award since its inception in 1973.
From Stand-Up Prodigy to Hollywood Icon
Murphy’s remarkable career spans nearly 50 years, beginning as a teenage comedy sensation before skyrocketing to fame on Saturday Night Live. His transition to film made him one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars, with blockbuster hits across multiple decades including the Beverly Hills Cop franchise, Coming to America, The Nutty Professor series, and voice work in the Shrek films. The multi-talented performer earned Oscar, Golden Globe, and SAG Award nominations for his dramatic turn in 2006’s Dreamgirls.
Reflecting on Success With Signature Honesty
A new Netflix documentary, Being Eddie, captures Murphy’s characteristically candid perspective on his career and awards season experiences. “It’s always wonderful to win stuff, but if I don’t win, I don’t give a (expletive),” Murphy says in the film about his Oscar nomination experience. The comedy legend has recently expressed greater appreciation for his success, telling The Associated Press in 2021, “Now I take nothing for granted and appreciate everything.” Murphy joins an elite group of AFI honorees including recent recipients Nicole Kidman, Julie Andrews, and Denzel Washington.