HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — The American Film Institute will honor Morgan Freeman with its 39th Life Achievement Award, the organization announced Monday.

The award will be presented to Freeman at a gala tribute on June 9, 2011 in Los Angeles.

"Morgan Freeman is an American treasure," said AFI chair Sir Howard Stringer. "Across decades, whether playing a prisoner, a president or God, he embodies a calm authority that demands respect for the character and for the art form. His gifts to the cultural record are also underscored by his unmistakable voice that echoes through the hearts and minds of movie lovers around the world. AFI is proud to present him with its 39th Life Achievement Award."

Freeman, 73, won the Academy Award in 2005 for best supporting actor for his role in Million Dollar Baby. Other notable film credits include Driving Miss Daisy and The Shawshank Redemption.

Others who have received the AFI Life Achievement Award include James Cagney, Bette Davis, Alfred Hitchcock, Jimmy Stewart, Jack Nicholson, Steven Spielberg and Martin Scorsese.