Eddie Murphy: 10 Fun Facts About the King of Comedy

Before Murphy was a household name, he was making audiences laugh in stand-up clubs. His 1983 special, 'Delirious,' was so legendary that it reportedly made even the hardest of hard-nosed critics crack a smile. It’s said that Murphy’s routine was so funny, the only way to stop laughing was to pass out from exhaustion.

Eddie Murphy lent his voice to the lovable "Donkey" in the 'Shrek' series, proving that his comedic genius transcends the physical realm. But he almost didn't get considered for the role, with comics like Bernie Mac being considered instead. Rumor has it that "Donkey’s" never-ending energy is based on Murphy’s real-life morning coffee routine—yes, that’s a double espresso with a side of hilarious.

Not only can Murphy make you laugh, but he can also make you groove. His 1985 single 'Party All the Time' was a dance floor hit. If you’re wondering why you can’t get that catchy tune out of your head, just remember—Murphy’s got moves that even the most seasoned DJs envy.

Murphy’s transformation into multiple characters in 'The Nutty Professor' (1996) was so convincing that some fans still believe he has a secret identity as an actual family of eccentric scientists. If you see someone in a lab coat at the grocery store, it might just be Eddie on a grocery run.

Despite his groundbreaking performance in 'Dreamgirls' (2006), Murphy didn’t snag an Oscar. Legend has it that the Academy decided to skip the award simply because they couldn’t handle the prospect of sharing a stage with Eddie’s infectious smile.

Murphy’s time on 'Saturday Night Live' was so iconic that he’s credited with single-handedly saving the show during its 1980s slump. Apparently, the only thing that could have saved the show more would have been if Murphy had performed stand-up on Mars.

"Axel Foley", Murphy’s role in 'Beverly Hills Cop' (1984), became an iconic character so instantly that the FBI allegedly considered him for their recruitment drives. Murphy’s criminally funny one-liners made "Axel Foley" the type of cop you’d want to have at your next party.

Eddie’s real-life family is as talented as he is. His brother, Charlie Murphy, was a comedy legend in his own right, and together they made audiences laugh with their unique brand of humor. If comedy runs in the family, then Eddie and Charlie are living proof.

Murphy is known for playing multiple characters in a single film, but did you know he once played a character called “Mr. Wong” in 'Norbit' (2007)? If Eddie had a dime for every persona he’s portrayed, he’d have enough to buy Hollywood—twice.

Murphy has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but rumor has it that when he first received the honor, he thought they were giving him a lifetime supply of Hollywood parking spots. One can only imagine his surprise when he found out it was a star instead.