Eddie Murphy doesn’t just play characters — he becomes them. From a loud-mouthed cartoon donkey to an entire Klump family (yes, all of them), he’s somehow perfected the art of cramming multiple personalities into a single film without even breaking a sweat. And just when you think you’ve seen it all — the accents and costumes included — Murphy finds a way to surprise us again, and we can’t get enough.
Suggested Reading
In light of the super star comedian’s highly anticipated Netflix documentary, “Being Eddie,” we’ve compiled13 of our favorite Eddie Murphy characters and transformations, proving that he’s one of Hollywood’s ultimate shape-shifting entertainers.
Rasputia Lattimore, “Norbit” (2007)
Loud, fearless, and entirely too confident for her own good, Rasputia Latimore from “Norbit” is one of Eddie Murphy’s wildest transformations. Hilarious, draped in attitude and chaos, she steamrolls over Norbit in every scene — literally and emotionally.
Mr. Wong, “Norbit” (2007)
Eddie Murphy went crazy with his love of transformation with Mr. Wong, the cranky, wildly inappropriate orphanage owner with a questionable accent and even more questionable opinions. He’s on our list of faves for good reason.
Clarence, “Coming to America” (1988)
Clarence from “Coming to America” is proof that Eddie Murphy can vanish behind a mustache and a bold character. His barbershop debates are pure gold — equal parts comedy, chaos, and total unfiltered uncle energy.
Randy Watson, “Coming to America” (1988)
Frontman of the unforgettable band “Sexual Chocolate,” Randy Watson is delusion, swagger, and soul all rolled into one juicy jheri curl. His off-key performance of Whitney Houston’s “Greatest Love of All” lives rent-free in our minds — and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way. His legendary character reprises in “Coming 2 America.”
Saul, “Coming to America” (1988)
The Klump Family, “The Nutty Professor” (1996)
From the sweet, soft-spoken Sherman to the gassy, boisterous Papa Klump, Eddie Murphy single-handedly turned one dinner table into a full-blown family reunion, and we couldn’t get enough.
Mushu, “Mulan” (1998)
As the pint-sized dragon with the confidence of a heavyweight champ, Murphy’s Mushu steals every scene with fiery one-liners and over-the-top swag. “I am the guardian of lost souls! I am the powerful, the pleasurable, the indestructible Mushu!” he hollered — and honestly, who are we to argue?
Donkey, “Shrek” (2001)
Donkey is the heart (and mouth) of the “Shrek” franchise. With boundless energy and Murphy’s signature comedic timing, he turned a talking sidekick into a pop culture icon.
Marcus Graham, “Boomerang” (1992)
Eddie Murphy’s Marcus Graham is charming, witty, and effortlessly stylish. Whether he’s dishing out romantic advice or getting himself into comedic trouble, Murphy’s suave performance makes Marcus the kind of man you love, laugh at, and maybe even wish you could be.
Prince Akeem, “Coming to America” (1988)
Charming, polite, and blissfully naive, Prince Akeem is Eddie Murphy at his most royal. From palaces to Queens’ streets, he navigates culture shock with heart, humor, and just enough awkwardness to make every scene unforgettable.
Mr. Robinson, “Saturday Night Live” (1981–1984)
Eddie Murphy turned a beloved children’s TV host into a streetwise, sarcastic legend with Mr. Robinson. He comedically skewed the wholesome world of Mister Rogers while highlighting real-world struggles from his inner city apartment. Murphy revealed he met with the real Mr. Rogers in 1982, and was glad he gave him a hug.
Maximillian, “Vampire in Brooklyn” (1995)
With Maximillian from “Vampire in Brooklyn,” Murphy combined suave and sinister. Critics didn’t love his methods in company swag and scary, however this film is legendary in Black folks’ book — hands down.
Rayford Gibson, “Life” (1999)
Eddie Murphy’s Rayford Gibson brings warmth, wit, and a quietly powerful performance that proves his comedic genius translates across a lifetime.
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