Kirk Douglas was recognized by his industry, peers, and appreciative audiences.
He received numerous awards and accolades, including several Academy Award nominations, an Academy Award for Lifetime Achievement, an AFI Lifetime Achievement Award, and a Golden Globe Award for Spartacus.
One of his most prized recognitions was the Presidential Medal of Freedom, awarded to him in 1981 by President Jimmy Carter.
“Kirk Douglas is a man of film and a man of conscience. He has strengthened the American motion picture by taking on challenging roles, and he has strengthened America itself by taking on injustices. His courageous stand against the blacklist helped to restore freedom to Hollywood, and his humanitarian efforts have touched the lives of thousands.”
Sampling of Awards
Academy Awards (Oscars)
- Honorary Award (1996) – For 50 years as a creative and moral force in the motion picture community
Academy Nominations:
- Champion (1949) – Best Actor
- The Bad and the Beautiful (1952) – Best Actor
- Lust for Life (1956) – Best Actor
Golden Globe Awards
- Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama (Lust for Life, 1957)
- Cecil B. DeMille Award (1968) – For lifetime achievement
Presidential Medal of Freedom (1981) – One of the highest civilian honors in the U.S., awarded by President Jimmy Carter
AFI Life Achievement Award (1991) – Recognizing his contributions to American cinema
Kennedy Center Honors (1994) – Celebrating his lifetime achievements in the arts
Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards
- Lifetime Achievement Award (1999)
Hollywood Walk of Fame – Star at 6263 Hollywood Blvd
French Legion of Honor (1985, 1990) – Knight and later Officer rank
National Medal of Arts (2001) – Presented by President George W. Bush
