The Many Characters of Eddie Murphy

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The talented Eddie Murphy has a long list of titles ranging from comedian, actor, writer, singer and producer. Murphy got his big break when he appeared as a regular cast member on Saturday Night Live from 1980 to 1984. Not only did Murphy rank number ten on Comedy Central’s list of the 100 Greatest Stand-ups of All Time, but he has received a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination. Murphy’s films have grossed over $4 billion in the United States and Canada box office sales – not to mention $6.6 billion worldwide.

There is a long list of films attributing Murphy’s popular name. One by one he took on each character and crafted them into his own masterpiece. With a list so long, it may be difficult to recall them all. Well, no worries we did all of the leg work for you – here are the many characters of Eddie Murphy.

Dr. Dolittle 1 and 2 - Dr. John Dolittle

Twentieth Century Fox

After a car accident when he was a child, Dr. John Dolittle suddenly gained the ability to communicate with animals with conversation. While the gift has a mixed blessing, Dr. Dolittle struggles to balance his ability to communicate with animals and function in the real world.

Obviously animals do not have the capabilities to speak with human beings in the way it’s portrayed in the film therefore, Murphy had to perform an extreme amount of adlibbing and play off animals that did not have human emotions. Murphy makes the doctor personable and helps bring everything to life. In many scenes, you begin to believe that Murphy’s character can communicate with animals because he is so convincing.

Bowfinger - Kit Ramsey and Jefferson Ramsey

Universal Pictures

Bowfinger was written by Steve Martin – who also co-stars with Murphy in the film. The film depicts a down-and-out filmmaker in Hollywood attempting to make a film on a small budget with a star who does not know that he’s technically in the film. Eddie Murphy plays two roles – Kit Ramsey and Jefferson Ramsey. Kit Ramsey is a hot and upcoming action star and has an ego that will barely fit inside of a room. When things get difficult Kit is cut and Jefferson “Jiff” steps in because he looks like Kit. Jiff is the complete opposite where as he has a kind, amiable and rather clueless personality.

The polar opposite characters reveal Murphy’s talents and reflect how he is able to play diverse roles with an ease.

All 4 Shrek Films - Donkey

Dreamworks Animation

Donkey is quite possibly the most popular character that Murphy has ever portrayed. Children and parents both love Donkey’s personality and general demeanor. Donkey is the perfect accompanying companion for Shrek because he’s able to approach things with a light heartedness that’s almost admirable. Despite Shrek’s constant mean tendencies, Donkey displays loyalty throughout thick and thin and refuses to leave Shrek’s side.

There is no doubt that Murphy’s humorous nature and own personality traits seep into Donkey’s character. Murphy embodies this character and makes him loved by young and old. And the best part is, it’s strictly done through his Murphy’s voice. He’s so talented that all he needs is his voice.