Johnny Depp to be honoured at MTV awards

Johnny Depp is to receive the MTV Generation Award. Photo / Supplied

Johnny Depp is to receive the MTV Generation Award.

The Pirates of the Caribbean star will receive the trophy at the MTV Movie Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday (local time).

The actor is being given the accolade as a celebration of his contribution to cinema over the last 20 years, in films like 'Edward Scissorhands, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Sleepy Hollow.

Stephen Friedman, President of MTV said Depp is "fearless, once-in-a-generation talent with a chameleon-like ability to inhabit any role".

"With years of astonishing performances, Johnny has truly earned this Generation Award, and we look forward to honouring him with a can't-miss tribute at this year's Movie Awards," he said.

Previous recipients of the MTV Generation Award include Reese Witherspoon, Sandra Bullock, Ben Stiller, Adam Sandler, Mike Myers, Tom Cruise and Jim Carrey.
Depp is currently filming his latest movie, The Lone Ranger, in which he plays the titular cowboy's native American sidekick, Tonto, a member of the Comanche Nation. Although the character is fictional, after hearing about the role, the Comanches invited Johnny to join their ranks.

President of Americans for Indian Opportunity LaDonna Harris said the role is a natural fit.

"I reached out, and Johnny was very receptive to the idea. He seemed proud to receive the invitation, and we were honoured that he so enthusiastically agreed."

The MTV Movie Awards will be hosted by comedian Russell Brand and take place at the Gibson Amphitheatre in Universal City, California on Sunday.

- BANG! Showbiz