The legendary Eddie Murphy is gearing up to receive one of Hollywood’s most prestigious honors. The American Film Institute (AFI) has announced that Murphy will be the recipient of the 51st AFI Life Achievement Award. In a historic move for the organization, the Emmy-winning tribute special will bypass traditional cable networks and stream exclusively on Netflix on May 31.
Murphy’s influence on film, television, and stand-up comedy is undeniable. For over four decades, he has been a consistent powerhouse, delivering iconic performances and remaining one of the industry’s top five box-office performers of all time.
The AFI Life Achievement Award is considered the highest honor for a film career. It is awarded to individuals whose work has fundamentally advanced the art of film and stood the test of time. By accepting this award, Murphy joins a highly esteemed club of Hollywood royalty.
Recent recipients of the award include: Francis Ford Coppola (2025), Nicole Kidman (2024), Julie Andrews (2022), and Denzel Washington (2019).
While the actual Gala Tribute will take place on April 18 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, the event will be edited and packaged for its global Netflix debut at the end of May. This marks the first time in the ceremony’s long history that it will stream directly on a platform like Netflix, moving away from its traditional broadcast homes like TNT and TCM.
Mark your calendars: The 51st AFI Life Achievement Award: A Tribute to Eddie Murphy officially hits Netflix on May 31.
