Eddie Murphy, a celebrated actor known for classics like Beverly Hills Cop, has recently shared his reflections on major opportunities he passed up during his storied career, discussing his top three missed movie roles in a recent Associated Press interview. These Eddie Murphy missed movie roles, now iconic hits in their own right, highlight a side of his journey marked by both great success and unforgettable ‘what ifs.’
The Ghostbusters That Might Have Been
Murphy revealed that he was initially considered for a spot in Ghostbusters, which would have realized Dan Akroyd’s vision for a team made up of Saturday Night Live stars, alongside John Belushi.
“Ghostbusters, I was supposed to do ‘Ghostbusters,’”
— Eddie Murphy, Actor
Yet, despite the promise of that ensemble, Murphy declined the role. Ghostbusters became a massive success, but fans still wonder how different the film could have looked with Murphy’s comedic style in the mix.
Turning Down Rush Hour
Another film Murphy wishes he had tackled is Rush Hour, an action-comedy that paired Jackie Chan‘s Inspector Lee with a fast-talking detective played by Chris Tucker.
“Didn’t do that, and Rush Hour. Didn’t do that. Oh, and Who Framed Roger Rabbit. Those are my big three ‘wish I would have done’ movies.”
— Eddie Murphy, Actor
Tucker stepped into the role and audiences responded; Rush Hour made $245 million at the global box office, resulting in two sequels and a long-discussed fourth installment. Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker’s chemistry turned the film into a benchmark for buddy cop comedies—something Murphy could have influenced had he said yes.
Missing Out On Who Framed Roger Rabbit
The last of Murphy’s confessed regrets is the live-action/animated hybrid Who Framed Roger Rabbit. Bob Hoskins took on the role of Eddie Valiant, a gruff detective reluctantly teamed up with the animated Roger Rabbit. Hoskins’ straight-faced performance helped make the film a critical and visual effects milestone. While Murphy passing on the part allowed for Hoskins’ memorable take, Hollywood continues to speculate on how Murphy’s involvement might have altered this innovative film’s legacy.
The Broader Picture: Regrets and Impact
Though Eddie Murphy missed movie roles that went on to shape popular culture, the films he did choose firmly established him among movie stars of his generation. Every actor’s career is dotted with roads not taken—Murphy’s frank discussion places him among peers like Dwayne Johnson, Wolverine’s Channing Tatum, and others who have spoken about missed chances and second thoughts. Ultimately, these stories remind audiences that career-defining moments often come down to pivotal choices, both taken and declined, weaving into the rich tapestry of Hollywood history.
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
