From “Saturday Night Live” to Streaming Stardom
Eddie Murphy’s career has spanned decades—beginning as a fresh-faced cast member of Saturday Night Live in 1980, then exploding into Hollywood stardom with films like 48 Hrs., Trading Places and Coming to America. Now his story is recounted in the new documentary Being Eddie, which premieres on Netflix on November 12, 2025. (Los Angeles Times)
Directed by two-time Oscar winner Angus Wall, the film offers Murphy’s own voice on his ascent, his personal life, and the cultural impact of his work. (People.com)
A Candid Look Inside
In the documentary, Murphy removes some of the public mask: he reflects on the pressure of early success, the cost of staying relevant, and the balancing act between fame and family. He discusses a rare moment of true vulnerability after the death of his late brother, Charlie Murphy, and how that loss shaped his perspective. (EW.com)
Murphy also revisits a controversial chapter in his story — the 1995 jibe from his former SNL colleague David Spade, which he says triggered resentment and a long hiatus from the show. The documentary places that moment in the context of a wider career of barrier-breaking for Black performers. (Decider)
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The Oscars Speech: Comedy With Purpose
One standout moment: Murphy recounts the lead-up to his 1988 presentation at the Academy Awards. Backstage, his friend and fellow comedy icon Robin Williams reportedly asked: “Why go there?” — a cautionary question about Murphy’s intent to challenge the Academy publicly. (EW.com)
Despite the warning, Murphy delivered his speech. He referenced the fact that at that time only three Black actors had ever won Oscars, and he declared: “Black people will not ride the caboose of society, and we will not bring up the rear anymore.” (Los Angeles Times)
The moment went largely unremarked in the press at the time, but now Murphy sees it as part of the long, shifting arc of representation in Hollywood. (EW.com)
Home Life: Wife, Kids and the Quiet Moments
Away from the spotlight, Murphy’s home life is central to his identity. He sits down in a rare interview with PEOPLE and describes his relationship with Australian model-turned-wife Paige Butcher as “simple” and stable. They married in July 2024 in Anguilla after dating since 2012. (People.com)
Murphy is father to 10 children, with ages spanning from early elementary to mid-30s, and he emphasises: “My legacy is my children … not what I did at work.” (Los Angeles Times)
Butcher, he says, knows exactly where he’ll be at any given evening: the couch, watching TV, with family around. It may not match the limelight of his early career—but for him, that is the real win. (People.com)
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Why This Documentary Matters Now
While the film serves as a near-complete retrospective, critics note it avoids some of the messier or more controversial episodes in Murphy’s life. (The Guardian)
For fans and industry watchers, though, it delivers something rare: major access. We get Murphy on his own terms, telling jokes and truth, admitting mistakes and celebrating triumphs.
As Murphy himself puts it: “Just to be in this business and just to be going and going … with my sanity and spirit intact, that’s what I’m most proud of.” (New York Post)
FAQ
When does Being Eddie premiere?
Being Eddie begins streaming on Netflix on November 12, 2025.
What does Murphy say about his iconic 1988 Oscars speech?
He recalls that Robin Williams asked him, “Why go there?” before his remarks. Despite that caution, Murphy proceeded and used his platform to address Hollywood’s lack of recognition for Black talent.
How many children does Eddie Murphy have?
He is a father of 10 children, from different relationships, and the documentary shows how central they are to his life.
Who is Paige Butcher and when did they marry?
Paige Butcher is an Australian model and actress who began dating Murphy in 2012. They married on July 9, 2024, in Anguilla. They share two children.
Does the documentary cover all of Murphy’s career controversies?
While Being Eddie is comprehensive in celebrating his work and influence, reviewers note it glosses over some of the more contentious moments in his personal story and public life.
What is Eddie Murphy’s age?
As of 2025, Murphy is 64 years old (born in 1961).
Source:
- https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2025-11-12/being-eddie-murphy-netflix-documentary
- https://www.netflix.com/tudum/articles/being-eddie-documentary-recap
- https://people.com/eddie-murphy-rare-interview-career-and-10-kids-exclusive-11847482