Top 10 Iconic Eddie Murphy Movie Characters That Defined Comedy

10 Greatest Eddie Murphy Movie Characters

Source: Screen Rant

1. Detective Axel Foley - Beverly Hills Cop (1984)

• Murphy stars as a street-smart Detroit police officer solving his friend's murder in Los Angeles.
• This role encapsulates his comedic sensibilities and launched him to international fame.
• Established a successful franchise with three sequels.

2. Donkey - Shrek (2001)

• Voiced by Murphy, Donkey is the optimistic sidekick to the titular ogre, adding humor and heart to the film.
• His character's catchphrases and comedic timing are key to the film's charm.

3. Billy Ray Valentine - Trading Places (1983)

• Murphy plays a con man swapped into the life of a wealthy broker, highlighting themes of class and privilege.
• Demonstrates Murphy's comedic and dramatic abilities.

4. Prince Akeem Joffer - Coming to America (1988)

• Akeem is a pampered prince who travels to New York to find true love.
• This role showcases Murphy's romantic and comedic talents.

5. Rudy Ray Moore/Dolemite - Dolemite Is My Name (2019)

• Murphy portrays the life of comedian Rudy Ray Moore, known for his Blaxploitation films.
• This biopic marked Murphy's critical comeback and demonstrated his range in complex roles.

6. Charlie Hinton - Daddy Day Care (2003)

• Murphy runs a daycare after losing his job, reflecting his family-friendly persona.
• The film captures the humorous challenges of parenting and entrepreneurship.

7. Jimmy "Thunder" Early - Dreamgirls (2006)

• In this musical drama, Murphy plays a fading soul singer, earning an Academy Award nomination.
• The character embodies the challenges of fame and addiction within the entertainment industry.

8. Professor Sherman Klump - The Nutty Professor (1996)

• Murphy portrays multiple characters, including a kind-hearted professor struggling with his weight.
• This role highlights Murphy's talent for physical comedy and character transformation.

9. Dr. John Dolittle - Dr. Dolittle (1998)

• Murphy plays a veterinarian who can talk to animals, showcasing his ability to adapt to family-friendly films.
• The film was a commercial success, leading to a sequel.

10. Norbit Albert Rice - Norbit (2007)

• Murphy stars in multiple roles, though the film faced criticism regarding its humor and character portrayals.
• Despite mixed reviews, it was a box office hit due to his comedic performances.

Conclusion

Eddie Murphy has portrayed a diverse range of characters throughout his career, from action heroes to comedic sidekicks. These roles not only showcase his unparalleled talent but also illustrate his ability to resonate with audiences across generations.