Eddie Murphy Reflects on Life in New Netflix Documentary

Los Angeles, CA – Eddie Murphy‘s latest documentary, “Being Eddie,” has premiered on Netflix, offering an intimate look at the life and career of the comedy legend.

In this documentary, directed by Angus Wall, Murphy explores his California mansion while reminiscing about his journey from a young stand-up comedian to a Hollywood megastar. The film features candid moments as he entertains his family and enjoys his favorite show, “Ridiculousness,” while reflecting on his past.

Murphy discusses his rapid rise in the entertainment industry, starting from his time on “Saturday Night Live” to blockbuster hits like “48 Hrs.” and “Shrek.” He also acknowledges some missteps, such as the film “Vampire in Brooklyn,” which he mentions in the doc.

Contemporary comedians like Dave Chappelle, Chris Rock, and Kevin Hart appear in the documentary, sharing how Murphy influenced their careers. They express admiration for his impact on comedy, despite the complicated legacy of some of his early material.

Throughout the film, Murphy maintains a warm and thoughtful demeanor. He reflects on his past, admitting he was a shy person who avoided the party scene, even turning down drugs from icons like John Belushi and Robin Williams.

The documentary also touches on Murphy’s long absence from stand-up comedy. While he attributes his superstardom to the lack of club time, there is transparency regarding his feelings about his older routines, which challenge modern sensibilities.

Notable figures, including director John Landis, appear to discuss their collaborations, such as “Trading Places” and “Coming to America.” However, the documentary does not delve deeply into rumored tensions between the two.

“Being Eddie” acknowledges the sorrow Murphy has faced, including the deaths of friends, mentors, and fellow entertainers like Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston. Memories of his brother, Charlie Murphy, who passed away from leukemia in 2017, are also featured.

Despite the losses, Murphy remains optimistic and focuses on the joy of entertainment. The documentary concludes with his return to “SNL” in 2019, symbolizing his continued passion for comedy.

As the film showcases a more reflective Murphy, it presents him as a family man and a revered figure in comedy, comfortable with his legacy and the joys of life.