In a recent interview on the New York Times’ “The Interview” podcast, Eddie Murphy reflected on an encounter from the 1980s involving fellow comedians John Belushi and Robin Williams. He recounted how, at the age of 19, he joined them at a Blues Bar where they indulged in cocaine.
Despite their offer, Murphy declined, citing his disinterest rather than a moral stance. Reflecting on his decision, Murphy expressed gratitude, viewing it as a stroke of luck or divine intervention that he did not succumb to the temptations of drug use.
Murphy highlighted the turbulent paths of various celebrities as cautionary tales, noting the premature deaths of icons like Belushi, who died of a heroin overdose at 33, and Williams, who tragically took his own life at 63 in 2014.
Drawing on these examples, Murphy emphasized the precarious nature of fame, especially for young Black artists, likening it to navigating a minefield where any misstep can have profound consequences.
Throughout his decades-long career, which began with his breakthrough on “Saturday Night Live” at a remarkably young age, Murphy avoided other vices commonly associated with fame.
He revealed that despite reaching the pinnacle of success, he never took up drinking and only tried marijuana for the first time at the age of 30. Reflecting on his journey, Murphy acknowledged the challenges he faced, attributing his survival in the entertainment industry to what he perceived as a protective force watching over him.
In addition to discussing his personal choices and experiences, Murphy touched on a longstanding feud with comedian David Spade, stemming from a joke on “Saturday Night Live” in 1995 that Murphy felt disparaged his career and was racially insensitive.
This incident underscored Murphy’s sensitivity to racial dynamics in entertainment and his commitment to confronting such issues, even amidst the complexities of fame and public scrutiny.