Eddie Murphy's Journey Explored in Netflix Documentary "Being Eddie"

Eddie Murphy's relationship with "Saturday Night Live" (SNL) has been tumultuous, marked by a notable rift that lasted decades. Murphy, who joined the cast at age 19 in 1980, played a crucial role in revitalizing the show during its challenging years. However, a joke made by David Spade during the "Weekend Update" segment in the late 1990s ignited a long-standing feud. Spade's quip, referring to Murphy as a "falling star," deeply offended Murphy, who felt it was a personal attack on his career. In the new Netflix documentary "Being Eddie," Murphy reflects on this moment, stating, “It’s like your alma mater taking a shot at you.” He expressed that the joke felt particularly hurtful and racially charged.

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"Being Eddie," directed by Angus Wall, premiered on November 12, 2025, and offers an intimate look at Murphy's nearly 50-year career. The documentary features interviews with notable figures such as Dave Chappelle, Jerry Seinfeld, and Jamie Foxx, who discuss Murphy's impact on comedy and film. Murphy candidly shares his experiences, including his early days on SNL, his rise to fame, and the challenges he faced along the way. He emphasizes the importance of self-love and discipline in navigating the pressures of stardom, stating, “I went through this minefield when I was just a baby, and I made it.”

Eddie Murphy shares reflections on 50-year career in Netflix documentary ‘Being Eddie’Eddie Murphy’s wife Paige Butcher stuns at Being Eddie documentary premiereEddie Murphy makes rare red carpet appearance with 7 of his 10 kids at Being Eddie premierePeople Magazine‘Being Eddie’ is an Entertaining Look at Eddie Murphy that’s Missing Quite a LotKOMO 4 newsBlavity News

The documentary also delves into Murphy's personal life, including his role as a father to ten children. He expresses pride in his family, stating, “My children are all decent people. I don’t have one rotten one.” Murphy's relationship with his wife, Paige Butcher, is highlighted, showcasing their supportive partnership. Additionally, he reflects on his past relationships, including co-parenting with ex-partner Mel B, revealing a newfound peace in their dynamic.

Eddie Murphy’s wife Paige Butcher stuns at Being Eddie documentary premiere

Despite the documentary's celebratory tone, some critics argue that it lacks depth, glossing over significant aspects of Murphy's life and career. The film does not explore his controversial past, including his early stand-up routines that contained anti-gay sentiments. Furthermore, Murphy's belief that he was blacklisted by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences after his candid remarks at the 1988 Oscars is mentioned, raising questions about representation and recognition in Hollywood.

Eddie Murphy Believes He Was Blacklisted by the Academy

"Being Eddie" serves as both a retrospective of Murphy's illustrious career and a personal narrative that reveals his growth and resilience. As Murphy continues to work on new projects, including a potential return to stand-up comedy, the documentary invites audiences to appreciate the journey of one of comedy's most influential figures. With its blend of humor, honesty, and heartfelt moments, "Being Eddie" is a significant addition to the understanding of Eddie Murphy's legacy in entertainment.

Eddie Murphy makes rare red carpet appearance with 7 of his 10 kids at Being Eddie premiereEddie Murphy’s wife Paige Butcher stuns at Being Eddie documentary premiereKOMO 4 newsEddie Murphy shares reflections on 50-year career in Netflix documentary ‘Being Eddie’People Magazine‘Being Eddie’ is an Entertaining Look at Eddie Murphy that’s Missing Quite a Lot

• “At my career, not how funny I was. Called me a falling star.” — Eddie Murphy

New York Times

• “It was personal. It was like, ‘Yo, how could you do that?’ My career? Really? A joke about my career? So I thought that was a cheap shot. And it was kind of, I thought — I felt it was racist.” — Eddie Murphy

New York Times

• “Yeah. I’ve never done anything because I was trying to get an award for it,” — Eddie Murphy

Blavity News

• “My children are all decent people. I don’t have one rotten one, and I would like to think that they got some of that from me.” — Eddie Murphy

Eddie Murphy makes rare red carpet appearance with 7 of his 10 kids at Being Eddie premiere

• “I went through this minefield when I was just a baby, and I made it,” — Eddie Murphy

Eddie Murphy shares reflections on 50-year career in Netflix documentary ‘Being Eddie’

• “I even said right before, I said, ‘I’ll probably never get an Oscar for saying this…’ And I went … I went and did it,” — Eddie Murphy

Eddie Murphy Believes He Was Blacklisted by the Academy