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 (03.06.12).

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

Stephen Friedman, President of MTV stated: "Johnny Depp is a 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."

Previous recipients of the MTV Generation Award include Reese Witherspoon, Sandra Bullock, Ben Stiller, Adam Sandler, Mike Myers, Tom Cruise and Jim Carrey.

Johnny 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: "It seemed like a natural fit to officially welcome him into our Comanche family.

"I reached out, and Johnny was very receptive to the idea. He seemed proud to receive the invitation, and we were honored 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. They will then be aired by the network on June 4.