Eddie Murphy Reflects on SNL Feud in New Netflix Documentary

NEW YORK, NY — Eddie Murphy‘s storied career in comedy and film takes center stage in the new Netflix documentary “Being Eddie,” which premiered on November 12. The film chronicles Murphy’s rise from a young comedian to a leading Hollywood star, including his contentious relationship with Saturday Night Live (SNL), the show that first made him famous.

Murphy, who was a cast member on SNL from 1980 to 1984, discusses how a joke by David Spade during a 1995 episode hurt him deeply. At the time, Murphy’s film career was faltering, and Spade joked about him being a ‘falling star’ in a segment called “Spade in America.” This prompted Murphy to feel disrespected by SNL and led to a rift that lasted decades.

In the documentary, Murphy reveals that he felt the joke was not only hurtful but also racist. “I’m the biggest thing that ever came off that show,” he told The New York Times in an earlier interview. He confronted Spade soon after, leading to a heated exchange over the phone.

After a series of successful films in the late 1990s and early 2000s, including “The Nutty Professor” and the “Shrek” franchise, Murphy eventually returned to SNL in 2019 for its 45th anniversary. He reconciled with Spade, and the two have since moved on. “I’m cool with everybody. It’s all love,” Murphy stated regarding their relationship today.

“Being Eddie” features candid reflections from Murphy and interviews with fellow comedians like Dave Chappelle, Adam Sandler, and Chris Rock, all contributing their views on Murphy’s legacy and the impact of his work. While sharing anecdotes from his life, Murphy highlights the challenges he faced in Hollywood, including overcoming personal struggles with OCD and the pressures of fame.

The documentary not only celebrates his career but also provides insights into his personal growth and creative journey. Murphy hints at future projects and a potential return to stand-up comedy, stating, “If it struck me one day, I would do it again.” He expresses gratitude for his lasting success despite the industry’s ups and downs, saying, “All my contemporaries are gone. You made it to here.”

As Eddie Murphy continues to explore new horizons in entertainment, “Being Eddie” stands as a testament to his resilience and enduring influence in comedy.