Eddie Murphy opens up about family and career in new Netflix documentary
Comedy legend Eddie Murphy shares a rare glimpse of his private life in the new Netflix documentary Being Eddie, which focuses on both his family and his four-decade-long career. Known for his roles as Axel Foley in Beverly Hills Cop, Sherman Klump in The Nutty Professor, and Donkey in Shrek, Murphy remains one of Hollywood’s most enduring stars.
A rare look behind the persona
Throughout his 40-year career, Murphy has played a wide range of characters, but has seldom allowed audiences to see the man behind them. This documentary seeks to change that by offering a candid view of his personal life and reflections on fame.
“There’s a great clip of Eddie on a talk show early in his career, talking about how he’s always been able to do impersonations and different voices. He talks about how his mom used to ask him, ‘Who’s Eddie? What voice is Eddie’s voice?’ This movie answers that question,”
said director Angus Wall.
“Eddie has played a lot of different characters over the last 40-plus years, but he has never played himself onscreen before. He opens up his world and his heart and I think people are going to really enjoy spending time with him.”
Roots of a comedic career
The film traces Murphy’s journey back to his teenage years, when he was inspired to pursue comedy after listening to a Richard Pryor album at age 15. By 18, he had already set his sights on becoming a professional comedian.
“I remember when I turned 18, comics saying, ‘Hey, man, I thought you were going to get famous when you’re 18.’”
Family reflections
The documentary also touches on Murphy’s life as a father of ten, including his daughter with Mel B, showcasing how his family relationships have evolved alongside his iconic career.
Author’s summary
In Being Eddie, Murphy finally drops his many characters to reveal the father, artist, and man behind the laughter, reflecting on fame, family, and over forty years in the spotlight.