Mike Myers paid tribute to Eddie Murphy at the AFI Life Achievement Award ceremony, appearing in full Shrek-inspired makeup for the occasion.

The tribute took place as Murphy received the American Film Institute’s highest honour, with several Hollywood figures gathering to celebrate his decades-long career.

Myers arrived styled as Shrek, the animated ogre he voices in the DreamWorks franchise, complete with green makeup and signature ears. During his speech, he credited Murphy’s performance as Donkey for the franchise’s success. 

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

He went on to describe Murphy as “lovable, hilarious, joyous, vulnerable, and loyal,” adding that the actor brings all those qualities together “in a tour de force.” 

Myers concluded, “Plainly put, Eddie is one of the greatest.”

Reflecting on his career, Myers noted that while he never worked with classic screen legends such as Charlie Chaplin, Alec Guinness and Peter Sellers, collaborating with Murphy stands as a comparable honour. 

“It is my absolute honor… to tell my kids that I got to work with Eddie Murphy,” he said.

The moment highlighted the lasting impact of the Shrek films, with Myers’ appearance underscoring both nostalgia and the enduring creative partnership between the two actors.