Dan Aykroyd’s daughter Belle is seen in her place at the AFI ceremony for Eddie Murphy
Dan Akroyd’s daughter Belle Aykroyd appeared in place of her father at Eddie Murphy’s AFI Life Achievement Award more than a year after the actor skipped “SNL 50.”
“My father wanted to be here, he was meant to be here, he wrote these words, and then life became difficult,” Belle said on stage at the event, which premiered on Netflix on Sunday.
The actor, 32, then read a letter from the “Blues Brothers” star in his absence.
“Hello, sir. We made a classic hit together, man. A critical and financial success,” Belle read, referring to Murphy and Dan’s 1983 comedy “Trading Places.”
“‘Trading Places’ is now a big part of Christmas movies, because of Baby Jesus. It was a solid script with a great director, John Landis, and a very talented and beloved cast, but Eddie, it was you,” he continued.
“It was your energy, intelligence, talent, skills, and enthusiasm that moved the film to the place of the pioneers.”
Belle concluded her father’s speech by reading his memorable words to the “Beverly Hills Cop” actress in “Trading Places.”
“You look good, Billy Ray,” he read.
It is unclear why Dan, 73, was unable to attend the event in person, and Page Six reached out to his attorney for comment, but he did not immediately respond.
In February 2025, Dan skipped “SNL 50: The Anniversary Special” because he wanted to experience the milestone as a fan rather than an active participant.
“I wanted to be home and I wanted to watch the show from start to finish,” he told “Entertainment Weekly” at Comic-Con 2025 last July.
“I knew if I was there, I would be in the dressing room, working. I wanted to see it live. I’m a fan of the show today, and I watch it all the time,” said the “Conheads” star.
“I love these young players; I think they’re great. I just wanted to see and be sad with my family at home, eating my popcorn.”
Dan appeared on the NBC sketch comedy show for its first four seasons, from 1975 to 1979.
A number of other original cast members attended the anniversary special, including Laraine Newman and Jane Curtin.
