Tracy Morgan says Eddie Murphy is his "comedic hero."
Eddie Murphy
The 46-year-old comedian, who suffered a traumatic brain injury and broken leg after he was involved in a fatal car accident last year, believes he wouldn't have the successful career he has today if it wasn't for the funnyman, 54, paving the way in the humorous line of work for people to follow.
He said: "He's the reason I'm in comedy. He's the reason I have a job. He's the reason I have a career."
Tracy's tribute to him came as the actor picked up the Mark Twain Prize - American's top accolade for humour, previously won by Ellen DeGeneres and Will Ferrell - in front of a star-studded audience on Sunday night (18.10.15).
After picking up his award from the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Eddie received a standing ovation as he thanked all involved for his prize and threw in some humour.
He said: "I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from the Kennedy Center and to join the distinguished list of past recipients of this prize ..."
He quipped: "Actually, it's an award, but they call it a prize. Usually when there's a prize, there's money."
Tagged in Ellen DeGeneres Eddie Murphy Tracy Morgan