EDDIE MURPHY

Eddie Murphy: Full Name & Vital Stats

Name: Edward Regan Murphy (professionally known as “Eddie Murphy”)
Birthdate & Age: Born April 3, 1961 – he’s 64 years old 
Place of Birth: Bushwick, Brooklyn, New York City

Early Life & Family Background

Eddie grew up in a modest Brooklyn neighborhood. His mother, Lillian, worked as a telephone operator, and his father, Charles—both a transit police officer and aspiring actor—was tragically killed when Eddie was around eight. Growing up after his father’s passing, Eddie and his brother Charlie spent nearly a year in foster care before being raised by their mother and stepfather, Vernon Lynch, in Roosevelt, New York. These early struggles helped shape Murphy’s potential and comedic voice .

From Stand‑Up Prodigy to Saturday Night Live

Eddie discovered comedy early—by age 15 he was performing impressions at local venues, heavily influenced by legends like Richard Pryor and Bill Cosby. In 1980, at just 19, he landed his big break: the only audition he’s ever done—joining “Saturday Night Live.” His work on SNL from 1980 to 1984 revitalized the show and cemented his rising star status .

Breakout Movies & Iconic Roles

After SNL, Murphy became a household name in cinema. He starred in a string of ’80s hits: 48 Hrs. (1982), Trading Places (1983), and Beverly Hills Cop (1984). Throughout the ’80s and ’90s, he led box-office successes—The Golden Child, Coming to America, The Nutty Professor, Dr. Dolittle—displaying his range from action-comedy to family-friendly fare .

Awards, Comebacks & Versatility

Eddie’s later career earned him critical acclaim. He was nominated for an Oscar and won a Golden Globe for his role in Dreamgirls (2006). He also received the Mark Twain Prize (2015), a Golden Globe Cecil B. DeMille Award (2023), and his first Primetime Emmy (2020) for hosting SNL—some 40 years after his debut .

After a brief hiatus, he enjoyed a resurgence with Netflix hits like Dolemite Is My Name (2019) and Coming 2 America (2021), and most recently led Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F on Netflix in 2024 .

The Singer Side & Voice‑Over Work

Beyond comedy and acting, Eddie explored music—releasing three studio albums (How Could It Be, 1985; So Happy, 1989; Love’s Alright, 1993). His single “Party All the Time” hit No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 . He also lent his voice to beloved characters like Donkey in Shrek (2001–present) and Mushu in Mulan (1998) .

Personal Life & Legacy

Eddie is a father of 10 and, in July 2024, married his longtime partner Paige Butcher in a private ceremony in Anguilla—his second marriage .

Legacy Summary

Eddie Murphy has built a multifaceted career spanning comedy, film, television, music, and voice acting. From a troubled childhood to becoming one of the most influential entertainers in history, his journey is marked by enduring hits, critical acclaim, and cultural impact.