Actress Viola Davis Honored with Degree from American Film Institute: Speech Highlights Connection in Storytelling, Emphasizing Its Role in Combating Loneliness
Viola Davis and Walter Murch Honored at AFI Conservatory Commencement
Viola Davis and Walter Murch, two of the most esteemed figures in the film and TV industry, were bestowed with Honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts degrees at the American Film Institute (AFI) Conservatory’s commencement ceremony held at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood on August 2025.
The accolades recognized their "contributions of distinction to the art of the moving image" and their status as masters of their crafts who inspire audiences and future filmmakers [1][2][3][4].
Gina Prince-Bythewood, a renowned director, presented Viola Davis with her award. Davis, an EGOT winner known for her roles in films such as "Fences," "The Help," "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom," "Widows," "G20," "Air," and TV series like "How To Get Away With Murder" and "The First Lady," humbly accepted the honor, considering everyone in the film and TV industry as her peers.
Walter Murch, a legendary film editor and sound designer with multiple Oscars for films like Apocalypse Now and The English Patient, also received an award. Murch encouraged the graduates to be resilient and supportive of each other as they navigate the evolving entertainment industry, particularly in the context of artificial intelligence. He also urged them to maintain their friendships and alliances formed at the AFI, as they will need each other in the years to come.
In her speech, Davis spoke about the power of cinema to connect with people's emotions. She mentioned the audience member who brings Sour Patch Kids, popcorn, and Diet Coke to the movie theater as an example of the audience that connects with cinema. Davis advised the MFA graduates to stay true to their passion and use their skills to heal, challenge the status quo, and make a difference in people's lives.
Murch praised the graduates for their courage in choosing to graduate in 2025, anticipating challenging times ahead politically, environmentally, and cinematically. Davis told the graduates that they already have the power within them to succeed. She emphasized the purpose of art as connecting people and helping them understand themselves.
Viola Davis and Walter Murch join a list of previous recipients of AFI’s honorary degrees, including Jamie Lee Curtis, David Lynch, Spike Lee, Angela Bassett, Mel Brooks, Carol Burnett, and Nora Ephron.
Director Gina Prince-Bythewood was picked by Davis and Julius Tennon to direct Davis in their JuVee film "The Woman King." The ceremony marked a memorable occasion for both Davis and Murch, as they were celebrated for their outstanding contributions to the world of film and television.
[1] American Film Institute (AFI) [2] Viola Davis [3] Walter Murch [4] AFI Honorary Degree Recipients
Movies-and-TV entertainment was the shared realm of honor for Viola Davis and Walter Murch, who received AFI Honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts degrees for their contributions of distinction to the art of the moving image. Polished by their status as masters of their crafts, both celebrities inspire not only audiences but future filmmakers as well.
