Eddie Murphy opens up about his iconic Beverly Hills Cop franchise in a groundbreaking Netflix documentary. “Being Eddie” premiered on Nov. 12, 2025, marking Murphy’s most candid interview ever. The 1 hour 44 minute film reveals behind-the-scenes secrets spanning five decades of entertainment.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- “Being Eddie” features interviews with Jamie Foxx, Jerry Seinfeld, Dave Chappelle, and Chris Rock
- Beverly Hills Cop dominated for 14 weeks at box office despite industry skepticism
- Murphy reveals his SNL feud, personal struggles, and upcoming Shrek 5 and Pink Panther projects
- Director Angus Wall crafted this intimate look at Murphy’s 50-year career
- Documentary marks Murphy’s first major retrospective in decades
How Murphy Conquered Beverly Hills
The documentary dives deep into Murphy’s breakthrough success with the original 1984 film. Murphy was just 22 years old when he starred as Axel Foley. Industry insiders initially doubted the project would succeed. But the movie became a cultural phenomenon and franchise staple for decades.
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Producer Jerry Bruckheimer reveals how Beverly Hills Cop dominated theaters. The film held the number one position for 14 consecutive weeks. Bruckheimer states in the documentary: “The conventional wisdom was it wasn’t going to work.” Yet Murphy’s comedic genius and improvisational skills transformed the project. The actor improvised countless scenes throughout production.
One legendary moment involved Murphy’s famous “Super Cops” monologue. Co-star John Ashton was so exhausted from laughter he had to pinch his face hard. Murphy was performing on empty reserves but refused the crew’s offer for a break. This raw dedication defined the entire franchise.
“Wow, you went through this minefield when you were just a baby, and you made it to here. All my contemporaries are gone. Michael and Prince and Whitney and Luther… they’re all casualties of this business.”
Surviving Fame and Fortune
The documentary explores Murphy’s journey through celebrity chaos and personal growth. Murphy became famous at age 19 when he joined SNL in 1980. He navigated temptations that destroyed many peers. Unlike Rick James, Robin Williams, and other contemporary stars, Murphy maintained sobriety and spiritual grounding.
Murphy reveals his personal philosophy: “I love myself. Always loved myself.” This self-care foundation kept him centered during Hollywood’s most turbulent periods. He never used cocaine despite surrounding himself with partiers. Murphy didn’t smoke or drink and avoided marijuana until age 30. Prayer remained his anchor throughout his career.
The star discusses mental health struggles viewers rarely hear about. Murphy battled obsessive-compulsive disorder since childhood. He describes ritualistic behaviors like checking his stove’s gas dials repeatedly. But Murphy learned to manage anxiety through recognition and intervention. These personal revelations humanize the comedy icon audiences thought they knew.
Behind-the-Scenes Franchise Secrets Revealed
Production Timeline and Development
| Project | Status | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Beverly Hills Cop (Original) | Completed | 1984 |
| Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F | Streaming on Netflix | 2024 |
| Shrek 5 | In Development | 2027 |
| Pink Panther Reboot | Awaiting Script | TBD |
| Mad, Mad World Remake | In Development 15 Years | TBD |
Murphy admits that Beverly Hills Cop II was “probably the most successful mediocre picture in history.” The sequel made $250 million worldwide despite Murphy’s own reservations. This candid assessment shocked longtime fans. The director also reveals that Murphy considered the third installment “horrible” and wanted redemption through Axel F.
The documentary includes exclusive footage from franchise production. Murphy describes improvising entire scenes with John Ashton and Judge Reinhold. Hundreds of takes were ruined because cast members couldn’t contain their laughter. Murphy’s natural comedic timing created magic no script could replicate.
What Comes Next For Eddie Murphy
- Murphy is developing a George Clinton biopic with director Bill Condon
- Shrek 5 welcomes Zendaya and promises Murphy’s fiercest vocal performance yet
- A Donkey spinoff movie is in active development for future release
- The long-gestating Pink Panther project needs a completed screenplay before production begins
- Murphy’s personal passion project is “It’s a Mad Mad Mad Mad World” remake where he’ll also direct
Murphy emphasizes the importance of feeling recharged before returning to work. After taking five to six years off from filmmaking, he felt restored. His 2019 SNL return as host reinvigorated his creative energy completely. This strategic pause allowed Murphy to evaluate projects with fresh perspective.
Does Netflix Finally Give Murphy’s Career the Documentary It Deserves?
“Being Eddie” marks a watershed moment in Murphy’s public persona. For decades, the comedian maintained strict privacy boundaries. This documentary represents his first major vulnerability on camera. Viewers gain unprecedented access to Murphy’s inner world.
Director Angus Wall spent five to six years crafting this intimate portrait. The filmmaker balances career highlights with personal struggles. Murphy’s openness about mental health, spirituality, and past conflicts resonates powerfully. The documentary succeeds because it feels earned, not forced.
Murphy acknowledges his 50-year milestone in entertainment with both gratitude and humor. He survived periods that claimed peers like Michael Jackson, Prince, and Whitney Houston. This survival story becomes the documentary’s beating heart.
The star remains open to continuing his career on his own terms. Stand-up comedy might return someday. Movie projects excite him only if scripts feel right. Murphy wants nothing more than projects that spark genuine joy. This philosophy has defined his 50-year journey and will guide whatever comes next.
Sources
- Netflix – Official “Being Eddie” documentary and promotional materials
- The Hollywood Reporter – Exclusive Eddie Murphy documentary interview
- ABC News – Documentary analyzing Beverly Hills Cop franchise revelations
Daniel Harris is a specialist journalist focused on the crossroads of breaking news, extraordinary history, and enduring legends. With a background in historical research and storytelling, he blends timely reporting with timeless narratives, making complex events and ancient myths resonate with today’s readers. Daniel’s work often uncovers surprising links between present-day headlines and legendary tales, offering unique perspectives that captivate diverse audiences. Beyond reporting, he is passionate about preserving oral traditions and exploring how extraordinary stories continue to shape culture and identity.