Guillermo del Toro, Mexican filmmaker behind works such as “The Shape of Water” and “Frankenstein,” received an honorary doctorate from the American Film Institute (AFI).
The distinction was awarded during the AFI Conservatory graduation ceremony honoring the class of 2026, held at the TLC Chinese Theater in Hollywood.
However, Guillermo del Toro was not the only personality from the film industry to receive this honor, as he was joined by the American screenwriter Aaron Sorkin.
“From the vastness of dreams to incisive dialogue, his contributions to art have inspired audiences around the world, just as they will inspire this year's graduates of the AFI Conservatory,” said Bob Gazzale, AFI president and CEO.
For her part, actress Octavia Spencer shared an unprecedented look at the ceremony through a post on Instagram where she expressed her admiration for the Mexican director. “Still overflowing with emotion after seeing Guillermo del Toro receive an honorary doctorate from the AFI Conservatory this morning, alongside Aaron Sorkin,” he began his message.
The actress who was part of Del Toro's Oscar-winning film, “The Shape of Water,” highlighted the inspiration that the filmmaker has become for new generations.
"Also seeing the 2026 graduation, the next generation of storytellers, reminded me why art must be protected at all costs. GDT, I really enjoyed that meeting that was going to be a 30-minute coffee and ended up turning into three and a half hours at the Café, all those years ago. We talked about horror, creatures, the creative process and antiques! From 'Mimic' to 'Frankenstein', you have always captured my heart and kept my full attention. Congratulations, Dr. Del Bull“, he concluded.
This is how the Oscar winner joins the list of stars who have received the same doctorate in previous years. It features: Mel Brooks, Clint Eastwood, Jodie Foster, Spike Lee, Helen Mirren, David Lynch, Jamie Lee Curtis and Viola Davis, among others.
