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Eddie Murphy Reflects on SNL Betrayal and Reunion

11/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In the documentary Being Eddie, Eddie Murphy says a 1995 David Spade joke about his decline hurt him and led him to sever ties with Saturday Night Live for decades, describing it as a betrayal by his alma mater.
He returned to host SNL on December 21, 2019, reigniting his creative energy.
He later appeared at SNL's 50th anniversary special, meeting David Spade backstage, and the exchange was friendly.

History

Historical Context

Saturday Night Live (SNL) debuted in 1975 and became a cultural touchstone in American comedy. Its 50th anniversary special aired on February 16, 2025, celebrating its legacy and featuring notable alumni like Eddie Murphy, who reconciled with the show after a long estrangement. The special attracted nearly 15 million viewers, underscoring SNL's enduring influence on comedic careers and the entertainment industry.

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Story summary

In the documentary Being Eddie, Eddie Murphy says a 1995 David Spade joke about his decline hurt him and led him to sever ties with Saturday Night Live for decades, describing it as a betrayal by his alma mater.
He returned to host SNL on December 21, 2019, reigniting his creative energy.
He later appeared at SNL's 50th anniversary special, meeting David Spade backstage, and the exchange was friendly.

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