Eddie Murphy receives standing ovation at American Film Institute tribute as Hollywood honors his decades-long career
Eddie Murphy was honored with a life achievement award at the American Film Institute ceremony in Los Angeles on Saturday night, where he was met with a standing ovation and an emotional celebration of his nearly 50-year entertainment career.
Murphy paused during the event to reflect on the moment, looking out at the crowd of family, friends, and longtime collaborators inside the Dolby Theatre. “Seeing all of my family, all my kids, my beautiful wife, and seeing all the different people I worked with, I’m just really filled up,” he said. “This is a special moment. I wish y’all could feel what I’m feeling, see what I’m seeing. I almost teared up. I’m going to get backstage and cry.”
The tribute brought together some of Hollywood’s biggest names, including Spike Lee, Martin Lawrence, Dave Chappelle, Chris Rock, Arsenio Hall, and Judge Reinhold, who were among those in attendance as Murphy made his way through the venue amid applause. The program also featured appearances and tributes from Bill Burr, Kevin Hart, Eva Longoria, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, and Kenan Thompson, with a televised special set to stream on Netflix on May 31.
Murphy’s career was highlighted throughout the evening, tracing his rise from a teenage stand-up sensation to his breakout success on “Saturday Night Live,” followed by blockbuster roles in films such as “Beverly Hills Cop,” “Coming to America,” “The Nutty Professor,” and the “Shrek” franchise. Large screen visuals showcased defining moments from his decades in comedy and film.
Director Spike Lee, who presented the award, praised Murphy’s cultural impact and longevity, saying he helped shape both comedy and storytelling in American entertainment. Chris Rock also emphasized Murphy’s influence, stating simply, “There is no us without you.”
Martin Lawrence shared a personal story from early in his career, recalling being turned down for a photo with Murphy, while joking that their families later became connected through marriage in 2025. “Now I can get all the pictures I want,” he said. “Because we’re in-laws.”
Arsenio Hall reflected on their collaborations, especially “Coming to America,” and highlighted Murphy’s versatility. “When Eddie does a family film, he plays a whole damn family,” Hall said.
Dave Chappelle spoke about studying Murphy’s stand-up as a teenager and credited him as a defining influence in comedy. He also described a recent visit to Murphy’s home that gave him a new perspective on his life beyond the stage. Chappelle said Murphy encouraged him to revisit past creative work, even joking about participating if it moves forward. “You are still the hero I want to be,” he said.
Musician Stevie Wonder praised Murphy’s broader cultural impact, saying his work goes beyond comedy. “Laughter can make life livable,” Wonder said. “Eddie is more than a comedian … he is a universal reminder.”
Mike Myers credited Murphy’s voice work in the “Shrek” franchise, calling his portrayal of Donkey a “masterpiece,” while Jennifer Hudson delivered a musical tribute featuring selections from “Dreamgirls.”
The gala raised more than $2.5 million for the institute’s education programs and also included recognition for cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw, who received an alumni award and spoke about her development through the organization.
Now 65, Murphy’s career has spanned stand-up, television, and film, earning him some of entertainment’s highest honors, including the Cecil B. DeMille Award in 2023. Closing the night, he thanked the audience for the celebration, saying, “Thank you for giving me this night that I will remember forever and ever and ever. I love you.”
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