Given annually to an actor who fosters the "finest ideals of the acting profession," the union’s highest accolade is presented to Oscar, Emmy and Tony nominee Reynolds at the 21st Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards, which is simulcast live on TNT and TBS Jan. 25 at 8 PM ET.

Past recipients of the Life Achievement Award include Rita Moreno, Dick Van Dyke, Mary Tyler Moore, Ernest Borgnine, Betty White, James Earl Jones, Charles Durning, Julie Andrews, Shirley Temple Black, James Garner, Karl Malden, Clint Eastwood, Edward Asner, Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee, Sidney Poitier, Kirk Douglas, Elizabeth Taylor, Angela Lansbury, Robert Redford and George Burns.

SAG-AFTRA President Ken Howard said in an earlier statement, "I’m thrilled that SAG-AFTRA is presenting our Life Achievement Award to Debbie Reynolds. She is a tremendously talented performer with a diverse body of screen and stage work, live performances and several hit records. Her generous spirit and unforgettable performances have entertained audiences across the globe, moving us all from laughter to tears and back again. Congratulations, Debbie, on your life achievements.”

Star of more than 50 motion pictures, two Broadway shows, two television series, as well as dozens of television, cabaret and concert appearances here and abroad, the 82-year-old Reynolds is celebrating her 66th year in show business.

The Screen Actors Guild Awards annually celebrate the outstanding performances in motion pictures, television, cable and new media programs from the previous calendar year.