Being Eddie: A Comprehensive Look at Eddie Murphy’s Legendary Journey
- Girikrishna GP
- Nov 17
- 2 min read
Netflix's new documentary, "Being Eddie," helmed by two-time Oscar winner Angus Wall, is a grand ode to one of the most enduring icons in Hollywood. The 102-minute film, released on November 12, 2025, charts the extraordinary five-decade career of Eddie Murphy, while finally offering the audience a very rare glimpse into his carefully guarded persona.
The documentary even takes viewers inside Murphy's California mansion, complete with a retractable roof-which marks the first time he has opened up his private world to cameras.
A star-studded celebration of a legend - Eddie Murphy
Among the friends and colleagues contributing to "Being Eddie" are Dave Chappelle, Chris Rock, Jamie Foxx, Kevin Hart, Jerry Seinfeld, Tracee Ellis Ross, Pete Davidson, and industry giants like Jerry Bruckheimer, John Landis, and Jeffrey Katzenberg. Their combined commentary underlines Murphy's influence across comedy, film, and television.
Career milestones and cultural influence
The film traces his rise from a 17-year-old doing stand-up in New York clubs to his becoming an SNL breakout star straight out of high school, something that has yet to be matched. Revisit the transformation of Murphy into a box-office power with classics like "48 Hrs.", "Trading Places", "Beverly Hills Cop", "Coming to America", "The Nutty Professor", and the "Shrek" franchise.
Jeffrey Katzenberg emerges as a key figure, notably defending Murphy during the early production of 48 Hrs., when studio executives considered replacing him. Murphy’s now-iconic redneck-bar scene secured his spot and paved the way for “Beverly Hills Cop.”
Personal revelations and the man behind the fame
More than fame, Murphy shares very personal information: his father's death when he was eight and the significant impact of his stepfather, Vernon Lynch, whom he considers his real father. He is also candid about his love for his ten children, stating, “It’s all about my children.”
Surprisingly, Murphy shares he has lived a straight-edge lifestyle, having never tried cocaine and only smoking marijuana for the first time at 30. Jamie Foxx adds that Murphy remains introverted, often sitting quietly at gatherings with a simple Coca-Cola.
The SNL rift and reconciliation
A full segment is devoted to the years-long Murphy grudge against SNL, following David Spade's infamous 1995 joke: "Look, children, it's a falling star." Murphy considered the joke to be a racist jab and beneath his standards for the show.
The film showcases his triumphant 2019 return to SNL as a healing moment, with Murphy confirming that he and Spade have reconciled.
Mixed reviews but an undeniable legacy
Critics have been split, some deeming the film "super watchable," while others feel it's too glossy and promotional. Yet all reviewers confirm Murphy remains magnetic on screen; Roger Ebert, for example, remarks he is "hilarious as ever." With Shrek 5 on the way and a Donkey spin-off in development, "Being Eddie" proves his remarkable journey is far from over - and his influence spans generations.
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