Morgan Freeman to Receive AFI Honors

Oh how far Mr. Freeman has come from his early days on The Electric Company.  More Oscar and Golden Globe nominations than you can count on both hands, wins at both ceremonies, almost 100 credits to his name, and even a couple stints as The Almighty One himself.  So what's missing from the resume of the man with the world's most recognizable voice?  How about a lifetime achievement award.  On June 9, 2011 The American Film Institute will right this wrong by presenting Morgan Freeman with their 39th Life Achievement Award.  Out of sight, Mr. Freeman, out of sight.

When announcing their plans for the tribute, AFI chair Sir Howard Stringer had this to say their honoree:

"Across decades, whether playing a prisoner, a president or God, he embodies a calm authority that demands respect for the character and for the art form.  His gifts to the cultural record are also underscored by his unmistakable voice that echoes through the hearts and minds of movie lovers around the world."

Could more true words about a man ever be spoken?  Morgan Freeman is one of those rare actors that comes along only so often that transcends his craft from the screen into our world.  When he's on screen, you can't take your eyes off of him.  And when he speaks, you can't stop listening.  Now if only he could narrate our life.

While the award gala is planned for the night of the 9th, TV Land will air the show later that month.  Besides tuning in just to hear the man of the hour accept his award, the show will be worth watching for the excessive amounts of celebs AFI usually crams into these rooms.

And for those of you that can't wait that long for your Freeman fix, check him out in the action-comedy Red in theaters Friday.

Editor's Note:  Mike McLaughlin is a guest writer at GTBP.net feel free to send him constructive or supportive comments using the comment box below.

Comments

[Dcarta]

Great article, well written and engaging, good work, Freeman rocks