Discover Eddie Murphy’s career highs, iconic advice, and insights in Apple TV+’s documentary on Black Hollywood legends.
What formed Eddie Murphy’s path in Hollywood?
Eddie Murphy became a pathfinder by skillfully combining fearless charisma with sharp wit.
Rising as one of the first Black stars on Saturday Night Live, he broke through with “80s classics like 48 Hours and Beverly Hills Cop.”
Dreamgirls in 2006 received an Oscar nod, but comedy remained his anchor—partially in response to advice from a Hollywood icon.
Why did Sidney Poitier gently prod Murphy toward comedy?
Murphy remembers a key conversation he had with Sidney Poitier during discussions on a possible role in Malcolm X.
Wearing his unique Bahamian accent, the great actor cautioned, “You are not Denzel, and you are not Morgan. You offer a breath of fresh air.
Never f—— with that. Poitier’s direct advice let Washington and Freeman rule that lane while Murphy avoided drama.
Alex Haley’s part—previously performed by James Earl Jones— tempted him, but Murphy backed off.
James Brown gave Murphy what strange advise?
Once Murphy was advised to give up profanity for longevity, the Godfather of Soul His financial advice, though, was unusual. Brown rasped, ” bury your money in the woods.”
Brown insisted when Murphy questioned the reasoning, “The government won’t find it!” Murphy laughs remembering it: “That’s the kind of advice I got!”
How did the success of Murphy stump Hollywood’s veterans?
Murphy broke ground as a young Black star exploding in his teens. Poitier’s fast ascent had no formula for success.
Murphy acknowledges, “they lacked a reference for me.”
His combination of natural ability and popular appeal changed the game, leaving mentors running to help him.
Murphy’s new documentary on Apple TV+ has a guest list.
With interviews of Denzel Washington, Viola Davis, Jamie Foxx, and Angela Bassett, Number One on the Call Sheet explores the development of Black Hollywood.
Divided into episodes on top men and women, it explores legacy, struggle, and reinventions. Opening March 28, it delves deeply into the complexity of stardom.
Quick Facts: Eddie Murphy Documentary
- Topic: Number One on the Call Sheet releases March 28 on Apple TV+.
- Features interviews with Denzel Washington, Viola Davis, and Jamie Foxx.
- Murphy’s lone Oscar nomination came for Dreamgirls (2006).
- Sidney Poitier advised Murphy to stick to comedy over drama.
- James Brown told Murphy to bury cash to avoid taxes.
