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Eddie Murphy Defends 'Norbit' Amid Streaming Success

8/11/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Eddie Murphy stands by his film Norbit, dismissing its dismal 9% Rotten Tomatoes score as overly harsh. His latest project, The Pickup, featuring Pete Davidson, debuted on August 6, 2023, with a modest 28% approval rating. Yet, despite the lukewarm reception, it has soared to streaming success on Prime Video, captivating audiences.

History

Historical Context

Eddie Murphy's 1988 film "Coming to America" grossed over $288 million, reflecting a shift in audience engagement and film criticism. As streaming platforms have transformed viewership dynamics, recent projects like "The Pickup" illustrate how commercial success can thrive independently of critical acclaim. This trend marks a significant evolution in the entertainment industry, prioritizing audience reception over traditional metrics.

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Story summary

Eddie Murphy stands by his film Norbit, dismissing its dismal 9% Rotten Tomatoes score as overly harsh. His latest project, The Pickup, featuring Pete Davidson, debuted on August 6, 2023, with a modest 28% approval rating. Yet, despite the lukewarm reception, it has soared to streaming success on Prime Video, captivating audiences.

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