Eddie Murphy, the iconic actor and comedian, has shared throughout his career countless stories, yet one particularly stands out in his recent Netflix documentary, “Being Eddie.” The 64-year-old recalled a surprising encounter with the late Yul Brynner during his 21st birthday celebration at the legendary Studio 54. Murphy reminisced about a provocative invitation he received from Brynner, who, with his wife by his side, suggested they all head back to his apartment for a party. Murphy declined, reflecting on it years later with humor, pondering, “Did he want me to go f—k his wife?” He added that the story could have ended quite differently, evoking laughter as he imagined recounting the tale of a wild night with Brynner.
Brynner, the acclaimed actor known for his role in “The Ten Commandments,” passed away in 1985, leaving behind a legacy that continues to intrigue.
As he reflects on his remarkable career, which includes roles in groundbreaking films like “Beverly Hills Cop,” “Coming to America,” and voice work in “Shrek,” Murphy has also expressed frustration about the Hollywood awards scene. In an interview, he lamented the insincerity he perceives at award shows. “Everybody’s dressed and acting and fake … just being in a room full of famous people is just a weird — I don’t like it,” he explained. Instead, he finds solace in quieter settings that recharge him, in stark contrast to the high-energy demands of performing live.
Despite his immense contributions to comedy and cinema, Murphy has never received an Oscar. His early years on “Saturday Night Live” catapulted him to fame in the 1980s, establishing him as one of Hollywood’s megastars. However, he has openly criticized the Academy for its lack of recognition of Black artists, recalling how he called out the institution during the 1995 Academy Awards. Murphy recounted how he initially rejected the offer to present an award, highlighting that, historically, black talent had not been acknowledged. His bold commentary during that night still resonates today, as he connects it to his continued absence from the winners’ circle.
While Murphy has enjoyed monumental success, he attributes his lack of an Oscar to a combination of his outspoken nature and the evolving nature of his career. He feels he is currently in a transitional period, eager to explore new creative avenues that reflect his experiences as a family man, especially after marrying Paige Butcher and welcoming two children together. Emphasizing his role as a father, he remarked, “My kids are the center of everything,” indicating how their presence has reshaped his perspective both personally and professionally.
Eddie Murphy continues to be a trailblazer in Hollywood, and while he has faced challenges in recognition, his legacy as a pioneering figure in comedy and film remains intact, inspiring future generations.