Eddie Murphy Takes On an Iconic Comedy Role in This Classic Franchise

Eddie Murphy is officially stepping into one of comedy’s most iconic roles.

In an interview that aired July 28 on TODAY, Murphy confirmed he’ll play Inspector Clouseau in a new “Pink Panther” film. The beloved franchise, which dates back to the 1960s, will now see the “Beverly Hills Cop” star take on the famously bumbling French detective previously portrayed by Peter Sellers and Steve Martin.

“Yeah, I’m the new Clouseau,” Murphy told host Al Roker after discussing his upcoming slate of projects, which includes Shrek 5 and a biopic on funk music legend George Clinton.

When asked if Clouseau would still be French, Murphy quipped, “Maybe. Well, he has to be French, but he could also be Haitian. I will tell you, he’s Black. He’s Black, for sure.”

The former “Saturday Night Live” star, 64, also reflected on how his approach to roles has evolved over time. “Usually I’m the young maverick guy. And now I’m the old voice of reason,” he said. “When you get our age, you have to pay. If you whip somebody’s ass when you’re our age, you kind of whip your own ass, too.”

Murphy has previously expressed interest in reimagining other classic films, including a remake of It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World — continuing his trend of stepping into reboots with legacy status.

Eddie Murphy Confirms Donkey Spinoff Movie Is Officially in the Works

In addition to returning as Clouseau, Murphy is also reprising one of his most beloved roles — Donkey from the “Shrek” franchise — in a new solo spinoff film, according to reports.

While promoting his upcoming Prime Video comedy “The Pickup”, Murphy told ScreenRant that he’s still recording dialogue for Shrek 5 and will begin work on the Donkey project this September.

“We’re still in the booth, and literally, we’re still doing Shrek,” Murphy said. “We start in September on Donkey — we’re doing a Donkey one…about to start Donkey in September.”

He went on to tease the storyline: “Donkey’s going to be like how Puss in Boots had his own movie. Donkey’s going to have his own movie — [his] own little story with his dragon wife and his kids that are half-dragon and half-donkeys. They’ve written this funny story.”

Although DreamWorks has not yet confirmed the project, Murphy’s statement marks the most detailed update fans have heard so far. The spinoff could potentially hit theaters in 2028 if the timeline holds.

Meanwhile, “The Pickup”, which co-stars Pete Davidson and Keke Palmer, will be released Aug. 6 on Prime Video.

Eddie Murphy’s Wildest, Most Outrageous Comedy Transformations

From prosthetics to full-on character shifts, Murphy has a long track record of going all in. Here are five of his most iconic, over-the-top comedy roles:

1. “The Nutty Professor” (1996)
   Murphy plays shy scientist Sherman Klump — along with six additional Klump family members — all in one dinner scene. Full-body prosthetics, distinct personalities and outrageous dialogue made this one of his most memorable comedy performances.
2. “Coming to America” (1988)
   As Prince Akeem, Murphy also secretly transforms into barbershop owner Clarence, elderly customer Saul and soul singer Randy Watson. With makeup and costumes so good they’re unrecognizable, this film cemented his character-acting legacy.
3. “Norbit” (2007)
   Murphy plays three separate characters, including the loud and over-the-top Rasputia. The prosthetics and exaggerated delivery turned the role into a pop culture moment.
4. “Bowfinger” (1999)
   Murphy takes on the dual roles of a flashy movie star and his nerdy twin brother in this Hollywood satire. The contrast between the two showcases his impeccable comedic range.
5. “Shrek” Series (2001–present)
   As the voice of Donkey, Murphy delivers nonstop energy, humor and heart. The role may be animated, but the personality is all him.

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