Eddie Murphy recently disclosed the three major film opportunities he regrets not pursuing, sharing these reflections while promoting his Netflix documentary Being Eddie. Candidly discussing his Eddie Murphy movie regrets, he revealed the surprising impact these decisions had on Hollywood history.
Missed Opportunities: Ghostbusters, Rush Hour, and Who Framed Roger Rabbit
The acclaimed comedian cited the 1984 classic Ghostbusters, directed by Ivan Reitman and eventually headlined by Bill Murray, Harold Ramis, Dan Aykroyd, Rick Moranis, Ernie Hudson, Annie Potts, and Sigourney Weaver, as his first notable regret. The comedy film evolved into an enduring blockbuster, known for its unique cast and enduring popularity.
Murphy also spoke about passing on Rush Hour, the buddy-cop franchise starring Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker. The film became a hit and led to a successful series, further elevating the careers of both lead actors. Additionally, he expressed disappointment over not joining the cast of Who Framed Roger Rabbit, a film he initially dismissed because the title sounded “ridiculous” but later recognized as an innovative cinematic achievement.
‘Ghostbusters,’ I was supposed to do ‘Ghostbusters,’ didn’t do that, and ‘Rush Hour,
—Eddie Murphy, Actor
Oh, and ‘Who Framed Roger Rabbit.’ Those are my big three ‘Wish-I-would-have-done’ movies … They were huge, giant hits.
—Eddie Murphy, Actor
How Ghostbusters Led to Beverly Hills Cop Success
Despite the regrets, Murphy pointed out that declining Ghostbusters opened the door for him to star in Beverly Hills Cop, a career-defining action-comedy that contributed significantly to his Hollywood fame. In his interview with AP Entertainment, Murphy offered insights into these pivotal career choices.
With ‘Ghostbusters, I did ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ instead. It was do this or that, so it worked out cool,
—Eddie Murphy, Actor
Just sounded ridiculous to me, and I passed on it. And afterwards, I was like, ‘Oh, that’s f—king amazing.’
—Eddie Murphy, Actor
Reflecting on a Legendary Career Despite Regrets
As Murphy continues to entertain audiences, his filmography remains impressive. He is celebrated for standout roles in the Nutty Professor and Shrek franchises, as well as hits like Dr. Dolittle and Life. His background in standup comedy and the success of specials like Raw have solidified his status as a Hollywood and comedy icon alongside notable peers like Chris Tucker, Rick Moranis, Jackie Chan, and others connected to major projects he once considered.
Though Murphy’s reflections on missed films speak to the unpredictable nature of show business, his path illustrates how every choice can lead to unexpected success, with his Eddie Murphy movie regrets shaping but never defining a truly remarkable career.
Eddie Murphy reveals his top three "wish I would have done" movies. His new documentary "Being Eddie" is out now on Netflix. pic.twitter.com/WLP5IprhAr
— AP Entertainment (@APEntertainment) November 13, 2025
