Eddie Murphy

Edward Regan "Eddie" Murphy (born April 3, 1961, Brooklyn, New York) is an American comedian and actor.

Career Lulls

In the late 80's and early 90's, Murphy's fame was fading via a series of poor sequels (i.e. Another 48 Hrs. and Beverly Hills Cop III), drab comedies (i.e. Boomerang and The Distinguished Gentleman), and ego-driven vehicles (i.e. Harlem Nights and Vampire in Brooklyn) that the public avoided in droves. His directorial debut, Harlem Nights was savaged not only by the critics, but also by several of the actors in the film. Richard Pryor had nothing good to say about the film or the star, which stunned Murphy, who had considered Pryor an idol. Murphy was also criticized tremendously by film maker Spike Lee for not using his show business stature to help black actors break into film.

Related Topics:
90's - Another 48 Hrs. - Beverly Hills Cop III - Boomerang - The Distinguished Gentleman - Harlem Nights - Vampire in Brooklyn - Richard Pryor - Spike Lee

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Perhaps the lowest point for Murphy was when David Spade insulted Murphy on his Hollywood Minute segment on Saturday Night Live. With a caption of Murphy on screen, Spade said "Look children, a falling star... Quick, make a wish!" Although Murphy is arguably the biggest movie star ever to come out of Saturday Night Live (an argument can also be made for Adam Sandler), he has never attended any cast reunions or anniversary specials. Some believe that it has to do with Murphy feeling that SNL (the show that gave him his big break) betrayed him with Spade's comments. Others believe it has to do with Murphy having no allegiance to Lorne Michaels, since Murphy was on SNL when Dick Ebersol was the executive producer, not Michaels.

Related Topics:
David Spade - Hollywood Minute - Adam Sandler

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