Eddie Murphy Documentary Explores His Father’s Murder
Netflix’s latest documentary, Being Eddie, offers a profound insight into the life of the legendary comedian Eddie Murphy. The film highlights his triumphs and tribulations, including the tragic murder of his father and its impact on his upbringing.
Eddie Murphy’s Early Life
Eddie Murphy was born to Lillian and Charles Edward Murphy, who married when they were just 18 years old. They welcomed Eddie into the world a year after their wedding. However, their relationship was deeply troubled.
Parents’ Divorce
The couple’s split was triggered by a seemingly trivial event involving a family photo session. Lillian arranged for professional portraits of Eddie and his brother Charlie. This decision led to intense conflict, culminating in the couple’s divorce.
- Marriage Age: 18
- Divorce Trigger: A photograph
- Eddie’s Age at Divorce: Three years old
Childhood Memories
Murphy’s earliest recollections include witnessing the intense arguments between his parents. One vivid memory involves his mother throwing a porcelain Virgin Mary statue at his father during a dispute. This chaotic environment significantly shaped Murphy’s personality and experiences.
The Impact of His Father’s Death
Tragedy struck when Murphy’s father was murdered when Eddie was only seven or eight years old. The details surrounding his father’s death emerged later through his brother Charlie Murphy, who revealed that the murder stemmed from a ‘lovers’ quarrel.’ This painful chapter profoundly influenced Eddie’s life.
- Father’s Death: Murdered
- Eddie’s Age: Seven or eight years old
- Cause: Lovers’ quarrel, as explained by Charlie Murphy
A New Father Figure
Following this tragedy, Lillian married Vernon Lynch, who became a pivotal figure in Eddie’s life. Murphy credits Lynch as a beneficial and stabilizing influence, stating he helped shape the man he became. Eddie describes him as a “solid father figure” and acknowledges the positive impact Lynch had on his upbringing.
Conclusion
Being Eddie not only explores Eddie Murphy’s comedy career but also illustrates the deep personal challenges he faced. The documentary offers an intimate view of how these experiences shaped his persona and professional journey.
