Eddie Murphy delivers an unexpected and candid revelation in the new Eddie Murphy Netflix documentary, “Being Eddie,” streaming now. While the special stays close to Murphy’s commonly shared stories, it features one surprising and risqué tale involving legendary actor Yul Brynner that Murphy’s fans likely haven’t heard before.
Eddie Murphy Opens Up About His Early Fame
Rising to stardom as a teenager on “Saturday Night Live,” Eddie Murphy became a household name by the time he was 19, well before he legally reached the drinking age. Fame came quickly and, as Murphy recounts, few had experienced such wild success and fun in the entertainment scene of the 1980s.
“Nobody had as much fun as we did in the 80s,”
Murphy says in “Being Eddie.” Nobody. – Eddie Murphy, Comedian
The Enigmatic Encounter at Studio 54
On the occasion of his 21st birthday, Murphy celebrated at the iconic New York nightclub Studio 54. Amidst the lively crowd, the comedian was approached by Yul Brynner, the acclaimed actor known for “The Magnificent Seven” and “The King and I.” Brynner’s distinct Russian accent, often imitated by other comedians like Billy Crystal, added to his unique presence at the party.
Yul Brynner’s Bold Proposal
Although Brynner’s cinematic prime had been in past decades, he remained prominent enough to make an impression when appearing at Murphy’s celebration. Speaking directly to Murphy, Brynner, accompanied by his wife, made a sudden and bold offer.
“He was with his wife, and he was like, ‘How would you like to come back to my apartment with my wife and party?’”
– Eddie Murphy, Comedian
Murphy, caught somewhat off guard at the time, provided a smooth response. Nah, I’m cool, he said, not realizing the full implications of Brynner’s invitation until years later. Only in hindsight did Murphy piece together the intent behind the offer, noticing Brynner’s wife’s knowing smile.
“Did he want me to go fuck his wife? I was like, ‘What the …’”
– Eddie Murphy, Comedian
Murphy Reflects on What Could Have Been
Looking back, Murphy joked about the encounter with a mix of amusement and disbelief at his younger self’s naivety.
“Now I wish I would have went,”
he remarked in the documentary, imagining a surreal scene where he might have ended up in a bizarre situation under the encouragement of Brynner’s famous phrase.
“Et cetera et cetera et cetera …”
– Eddie Murphy, Comedian
The comedian humorously wonders what might have happened if he had impulsively accepted Brynner’s invitation, chuckling about how the story could have had an even more outrageous ending. Throughout this segment, Murphy mixes laughter with genuine surprise at how his youthful innocence shaped the course of one of his wildest celebrity encounters.
Not Just Another Hollywood Anecdote
The Eddie Murphy Netflix documentary, “Being Eddie,” may keep most of the star’s secrets closely guarded, but this unexpected story provides a rare glimpse into the unpredictable, high-octane world Murphy inhabited at the height of his fame. The disclosure stands out as an intense and emotionally charged moment, echoing the conflicted sentiments that shaped Murphy’s career and personal growth.
As streaming audiences digest this candid confession, they are presented with a fresh angle on the celebrity culture of Studio 54 and the wider entertainment world. Beyond what fans have heard on talk shows, Murphy’s memory—with names like Yul Brynner, Billy Crystal, and the legendary New York nightclubs—adds to pop culture history, leaving viewers pondering what other secrets remain untold.
