Mike Myers Channels Shrek to Honor Eddie Murphy at AFI Ceremony

The 'SNL' alum paid tribute to his longtime friend and co-star at the American Film Institute's Life Achievement Award event.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 2:20am

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An extreme close-up of shimmering gold sequins and reflective disco ball shards, creating a high-contrast, abstract texture that evokes the glitz and glamour of a major awards show.The sparkling textures and dramatic lighting of a Hollywood red carpet set the stage for a night honoring comedy icon Eddie Murphy.Los Angeles Today

Mike Myers surprised the audience at the American Film Institute's Life Achievement Award ceremony by appearing on stage transformed into his iconic Shrek character to honor fellow 'SNL' alum Eddie Murphy. Myers praised Murphy's portrayal of Donkey in the Shrek franchise as a 'masterpiece' and called him 'one of the greatest.' The ceremony featured a star-studded lineup of comedians and actors paying tribute to Murphy, who received the prestigious AFI award.

Why it matters

The appearance of Mike Myers as Shrek to honor Eddie Murphy highlights the enduring friendship and creative partnership between the two comedic legends, who both rose to fame on 'Saturday Night Live.' It also underscores Murphy's lasting impact and influence on comedy and popular culture, as evidenced by the outpouring of praise from his peers.

The details

During the AFI Life Achievement Award ceremony at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, Mike Myers unexpectedly took the stage in full Shrek costume and makeup to pay tribute to his longtime friend and co-star Eddie Murphy. Myers praised Murphy's performance as the talkative donkey sidekick in the Shrek animated films as a 'masterpiece' and said 'none of Shrek's success could have happened without Eddie Murphy.' The ceremony also featured appearances from other comedy stars like Kevin Hart, Tracy Morgan, and Dave Chappelle, all honoring Murphy's iconic career.

  • The AFI Life Achievement Award ceremony took place on April 20, 2026.
  • Mike Myers was an 'SNL' cast member from 1989 to 1995, while Eddie Murphy was on the cast from 1980 to 1984.

The players

Mike Myers

A Canadian-American comedian and actor best known for his roles in the 'Austin Powers' and 'Shrek' film franchises. He and Eddie Murphy were both former cast members of 'Saturday Night Live.'

Eddie Murphy

A legendary American comedian, actor, and producer who rose to fame on 'Saturday Night Live' in the 1980s. He is known for starring in hit films like 'Beverly Hills Cop,' 'Coming to America,' and the 'Shrek' animated movies.

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What they’re saying

“None of Shrek's success could have happened without Eddie Murphy. Eddie's character, Donkey, is a masterpiece, as is every character that Eddie has created over the years.”

— Mike Myers, Comedian and Actor

“I'm going to get backstage and cry.”

— Eddie Murphy

The takeaway

The appearance of Mike Myers as Shrek to honor Eddie Murphy at the AFI Life Achievement Award ceremony underscores the deep respect and admiration that comedy legends have for each other, even decades after their breakout successes. It's a touching moment that celebrates the enduring impact of both performers on popular culture.