Eddie Murphy
Biography
Edward "Eddie" Regan Murphy, born on April 3, 1961, is an iconic figure in American entertainment, renowned as an actor, comedian, voice actor, filmmaker, producer, and even a singer. He stands as the second-highest grossing actor in cinema history, a testament to his remarkable influence in the industry.
Murphy gained prominence as a cast member on the legendary sketch show Saturday Night Live from 1980 to 1984, where he showcased his comedic prowess. His stand-up career has also been highly acclaimed; he was notably ranked #10 on Comedy Central's list of the 100 Greatest Stand-ups of All Time. His film career is marked by several Golden Globe nominations, particularly for his roles in classics like 48 Hrs, Beverly Hills Cop, Trading Places, and The Nutty Professor. In 2007, he clinched the Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor for his unforgettable performance as soul singer James "Thunder" Early in Dreamgirls, earning an Academy Award nomination for the same role.
Murphy has also made a significant mark as a voice actor, bringing to life memorable characters such as Thurgood Stubbs in The PJs, Donkey in the Shrek franchise, and Mushu in Disney's Mulan. Throughout his career, he has often embraced the challenge of playing multiple roles in films, a nod to his idol Peter Sellers. Notable examples include his performances in Coming to America, Wes Craven's Vampire in Brooklyn, and the Nutty Professor series, where he portrayed an array of characters, showcasing his extraordinary range and talent.
Filmography
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Being Eddie
2025 • Self
Imagine That
2009 • Evan Danielson
Candy Cane Lane
2023 • Chris Carver
Ladies & Gentlemen... 50 Years of SNL Music
2025 • Self
Eddie Murphy Raw
1987 • Self
Dreamworks Holiday Classics
2012 • Donkey (voice)
Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F
2024 • Axel Foley
Saturday Night Live: The Best of Eddie Murphy
1998 • Self (archive footage)
Eddie Murphy: Delirious
1983 • Self
A Thousand Words
2012 • Jack McCall
Shrek the Halls
2007 • Donkey (voice)
Method to the Madness of Jerry Lewis
2011 • Self
Vampire in Brooklyn
1995 • Maximillian / Pauly / Guido
Nutty Professor II: The Klumps
2000 • Sherman Klump / Buddy Love / Granny Klump / Mama Klump / Papa Klump / Young Papa Klump / Ernie Klump / Lance Perkins
The Adventures of Pluto Nash
2002 • Pluto Nash
Dolemite Is My Name
2019 • Rudy Ray Moore
Another 48 Hrs.
1990 • Reggie Hammond
Bowfinger
1999 • Kit Ramsey / Jeffernson 'Jiff' Ramsey
Meet Dave
2008 • Dave / Captain
Best Defense
1984 • Landry
Boomerang (1992)
1992 • Marcus Graham
Dr. Dolittle 2
2001 • Dr. John Dolittle