The 71-year-old veteran Hollywood star was handed the honor in a glitzy function at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel in Manhattan.

“From my decades of work in theater and film, I know firsthand the importance of our community giving back to support those in need,” he said. “Actors, musicians, directors, crew members and so many others – they are all a part of our community. And when they need a helping hand, we know The Actors Fund will be there.”

The prize is named after the acting teacher Lee Strasberg, who mentored and helped young Pacino to be what he is today. The two have also acted in two films ‘1974’s The Godfather II’ and 1979 ‘Justice For All’.