Since 1952, the Golden Globes have bestowed one of their most prestigious honors — the Cecil B. DeMille Award — on artists whose careers have left a lasting impact on film and television. The award recognizes “outstanding contributions to the world of entertainment” and is considered the Globes’ top lifetime achievement distinction. Named after legendary filmmaker Cecil B. DeMille, the honor was first awarded to DeMille himself in 1952. Over the decades, the trophy has gone to some of the most influential figures in Hollywood history, spanning classic cinema, modern blockbusters, and television excellence.
2026 Honoree: Helen Mirren
The most recent recipient, Helen Mirren, received the Cecil B. DeMille Award in 2026 during the Golden Eve primetime special. In an emotional acceptance speech, Mirren described the honor as recognition of “a life lived, a life survived, a life enjoyed,” reflecting on decades of acclaimed work across stage and screen. Her win places her among an elite group of performers whose careers have shaped global entertainment.
Recent Decade of DeMille Winners
In the past decade, the award has celebrated a diverse range of talent. Viola Davis received the honor in 2025, following a year in which the award was skipped due to scheduling constraints. Earlier recipients include Eddie Murphy (2023), Jane Fonda (2021), and Tom Hanks (2020). In 2018, Oprah Winfrey made history as the first Black woman to receive the Cecil B. DeMille Award, delivering a speech that became a defining cultural moment.
Icons of Modern Hollywood
The 2010s saw the honor go to some of cinema’s most celebrated names, including Meryl Streep, Denzel Washington, George Clooney, Steven Spielberg, and Martin Scorsese. These recipients represent decades of box office success, critical acclaim, and industry influence, often using their speeches to reflect on Hollywood’s evolving landscape.
Legends of Classic Cinema
Earlier winners include titans of classic Hollywood such as Audrey Hepburn, Sidney Poitier, Alfred Hitchcock, Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra, and Walt Disney. Their inclusion underscores the award’s role as a bridge between Hollywood’s golden age and its modern era.
A Rarely Skipped Honor
Since its creation, the Cecil B. DeMille Award has been skipped only four times — in 1976, 2008, 2022, and 2024 — due to industry strikes, controversies, or broadcast limitations. Otherwise, it has remained a consistent tribute to excellence and longevity.
A Symbol of Enduring Legacy
More than a trophy, the Cecil B. DeMille Award stands as a celebration of careers that have shaped storytelling across generations. With Helen Mirren joining its distinguished ranks in 2026, the honor continues to reflect Hollywood’s past, present, and future.
