Sir Sean Connery was awarded the 34th AFI Life Achievement Award by the American Film Institute's (AFI) Board of Trustees, its highest honor for a career in film. A gala tribute was held in Los Angeles on June 8, 2006. "Sir Sean Connery is an international film icon," said Sir Howard Stringer, chair of the AFI Board of Trustees. "Though best remembered for creating one of the great film heroes of all time, his talents transcend typecasting, and his body of work not only stands the test of time, but illuminates a career more extraordinary than James Bond himself. Sir Sean is an artist of the highest order, and AFI is honored to present him with its 34th Life Achievement Award." About the AFI Life Achievement Award The highest honor given for a career in film, the AFI Life Achievement Award was established by the AFI Board of Trustees on February 26, 1973. It is presented to a single honoree each year based on the following criteria as mandated through a resolution passed by the AFI Board of Trustees: "The recipient should be one whose talent has in a fundamental way advanced the film art; whose accomplishment has been acknowledged by scholars, critics, professional peers and the general public; and whose work has stood the test of time." In 1993, the trustees extended the criteria to encompass "individuals with active careers and work of significance yet to be accomplished." Source: AFI Press Release USA Today is featuring an article about the tribute ceremony at the Read link. It will be televised on the USA Network on 6/21/2006.