UPDATE: Netflix has just released the highly anticipated documentary “Being Eddie,” which unveils the untold story of comedy icon Eddie Murphy. Streaming now, this documentary offers a rare glimpse into the life of the man behind unforgettable characters like the wisecracking donkey from “Shrek” and the beloved professor from “The Nutty Professor.”
In “Being Eddie,” directed by Angus Wall, Murphy shares his journey from a young stand-up comedian in New Jersey to becoming a Hollywood legend. With candid insights and his signature humor, he reflects on his career, including hits like “48 Hrs.,” “Trading Places,” and “Eddie Murphy Raw.” This documentary is particularly significant as Murphy is known for his privacy and rarely grants interviews.
The film is set against the backdrop of Murphy’s expansive estate, where he engages with his ten children and second wife, Paige Butcher. He emphasizes, “My legacy is my children, not what I did at work. If you put your family first, you will never make a bad decision.” This personal touch adds depth to the documentary and resonates with audiences looking for a glimpse into the superstar’s private life.
Among the numerous entertainers featured in the documentary, icons like Jerry Seinfeld, Dave Chappelle, and Chris Rock discuss Murphy’s profound influence on popular culture. Murphy offers reflections on both his successes and missteps, including a humorous recollection of being approached by actor Yul Brynner at his 21st birthday party, where he declined a curious invitation.
Murphy’s candidness extends to his experiences with substance use. He recalls a time when he was at a blues bar with Robin Williams and John Belushi but never tried cocaine, stating, “I was never curious about it.” His low-key nature is corroborated by fellow actor Jamie Foxx, who describes Murphy as “very introverted” and often sitting back with a Coke at gatherings.
The documentary also touches on Murphy’s tumultuous relationship with Saturday Night Live, including a painful joke made by David Spade that hurt his pride. Reflecting on his career, Murphy admits that he took a break from Hollywood in 2011 after a series of disappointments but returned to SNL in 2019 to reconnect with his roots.
Another noteworthy moment in the film involves Murphy discussing his infamous Academy Awards appearance in 1988, where he boldly declared that “Black people will not ride in the caboose of society.” Despite this powerful statement, he lamented that it received no media coverage. His thoughts on the Oscars reveal a complex relationship with the entertainment industry, especially after losing the Best Supporting Actor award for “Dreamgirls” to Alan Arkin.
Murphy’s humor is a crucial element of the film, as he showcases his evolution from a young comedian to a respected actor. He reflects on his past, including the impact of his role in “Dreamgirls,” calling it his most accomplished performance. “A lot of the pain was real,” he shared about portraying a soul star struggling with fame.
As the documentary progresses, Murphy humorously engages in conversations with his dummies of fellow comedians Richard Pryor and Bill Cosby, highlighting his admiration for Pryor while addressing the rivalry Hollywood often portrayed between them.
In a striking revelation, Murphy discusses the profound changes in his laughter over the years, stating, “The infectious laugh that I used in my films is gone.” His reflections offer a glimpse into the personal evolution of a man who has been in the spotlight for decades.
“Being Eddie” is not just a documentary; it’s a compelling narrative that resonates deeply with fans and newcomers alike. With its blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and industry insights, this film is a must-watch for anyone wanting to understand the legacy of Eddie Murphy.
As the buzz around “Being Eddie” continues to grow, audiences are encouraged to tune in and experience the heartfelt and humorous journey of one of America’s greatest comedians. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the real Eddie Murphy—stream it now on Netflix!
