Eddie Murphy recently shared intriguing career advice he received from Sidney Poitier, adding a unique perspective on his successful Hollywood journey. This revelation occurred during the documentary “Number One on the Call Sheet: Black Leading Men in Hollywood,” where Murphy recounted a pivotal conversation with Poitier. Reflecting on the time when Norman Jewison was planning to direct a film on Malcolm X, based on Alex Haley’s autobiography, Murphy considered the lead role of Alex Haley. During this period, he crossed paths with Poitier and sought his opinion, expecting insights from a Hollywood veteran.
Murphy recalled, “Around that same time, I bumped into Sidney Poitier at something, and I asked him, ‘Yeah, I’m thinking about playing Alex Haley!'” The response was both unexpected and thought-provoking. Poitier, renowned for his groundbreaking performances in films such as “In the Heat of the Night,” advised Murphy, “You are not Denzel, and you are not Morgan. You are a breath of fresh air, and don’t f— with that!”
This statement, which initially left Murphy questioning its intent, suggested a unique positioning for him within Hollywood. During the 1980s, Murphy was rising alongside other leading actors like Denzel Washington and Morgan Freeman. While Jewison eventually cast Washington in the role for “Malcolm X,” Poitier’s words seemed to highlight Murphy’s distinctive presence in the industry.
The documentary sheds light on Murphy’s perception of his career, comparing his journey to that of his peers. Murphy mused, “I was in uncharted waters. For Sidney and all those guys, when I showed up, it was something kinda new.” This acknowledgment of his trailblazing role among Black leading men underscores the cultural significance of his early career decisions. Murphy, who rose to fame with blockbuster hits that resonated globally, found himself navigating an industry without many predecessors to guide him.
Despite the uniqueness of his career path, Eddie Murphy revealed that another iconic figure, James Brown, attempted to offer him guidance. “He told me I should stop cursing,” Murphy recounted with a laugh. Brown, known for his long and successful career in entertainment, shared his wisdom, advising Murphy against swearing if he desired longevity in the business.
Brown’s advice even extended beyond professional conduct to financial caution. In a humorous exchange, Brown questioned Murphy’s financial security, suggesting, “If you do got a million dollars, you take it and you bury it in the woods.” This unconventional financial tip was given with the reasoning that it would safeguard wealth from the government, a notion Murphy found amusingly impractical.
These shared anecdotes from Murphy not only offer insights into the challenges he faced but also highlight the rarity of mentorship available to pioneering Black actors in Hollywood. As Murphy navigated his meteoric rise, advice from figures like Poitier and Brown became cherished, regardless of how unconventional it seemed.
Murphy’s recollection emphasizes the broader cultural landscape of the 1980s Hollywood scene, providing a snapshot of how unique talents like his were perceived by legendary figures of the time. As audiences still celebrate his enduring legacy, Murphy’s reflections highlight the continuous relevance and influence of Sidney Poitier’s guidance. The documentary “Number One on the Call Sheet: Black Leading Men in Hollywood,” now streaming on Apple TV+, offers an in-depth look at narratives like Murphy’s, affirming the vital role such interactions played in shaping the identities of iconic Black men in cinema.
