Eddie Murphy's 'What Ifs': The Blockbusters He Said No To

Eddie Murphy, an absolute titan in comedy and film, has given us countless unforgettable characters and belly laughs over the decades. From the raw energy of his stand-up specials to iconic roles like Axel Foley and the Nutty Professor, his influence is undeniable. But even for a superstar of his caliber, a career spanning so many years is bound to have its share of crossroads, those pivotal moments where one path is chosen and another, well, left unexplored. It’s fascinating, isn't it, to think about the 'what ifs' in anyone's life, especially when you're talking about Hollywood blockbusters.

Recently, the inimitable Murphy himself candidly opened up about a handful of genuinely massive projects he famously turned down, decisions that, looking back, he admits were perhaps not the wisest. The first one he mentioned might just make you scratch your head a bit: Who Framed Roger Rabbit? Can you believe it? He was actually approached for the lead role! At the time, Eddie confessed, the whole concept of mixing live-action actors with animated characters felt a bit… far-fetched. 'I was like, 'cartoons and people? That sounds like bullsht to me,'' he recalled, admitting his initial skepticism. Of course, the film went on to become a groundbreaking, critically acclaimed, and incredibly successful blockbuster. 'Oh, no,' he remembers thinking upon seeing it, 'I f*ked up.' A classic case of innovative ideas sometimes needing a moment to click with even the brightest minds.

Then there’s Ghostbusters. Yes, that Ghostbusters. Imagine Eddie Murphy alongside Bill Murray and Dan Aykroyd! He was offered the role of Winston Zeddemore, the character ultimately brought to life so wonderfully by Ernie Hudson. However, timing, as it often does in Hollywood, played a significant part here. Murphy was deeply immersed in Beverly Hills Cop at the time, a project he was incredibly passionate about and one that, let’s be honest, became one of his signature roles. He reflected that while Ghostbusters was a huge hit, Beverly Hills Cop just felt like the right fit for him at that exact moment in his career. Sometimes, you just have to follow your gut, even if it means missing out on another classic.

And finally, rounding out this trio of 'almosts' is the action-comedy smash, Rush Hour. Picture this: Eddie Murphy paired with Jackie Chan. It almost happened! Murphy confirmed he was indeed offered a part in the film. Yet, for reasons not fully elaborated upon – perhaps scheduling again, or just not feeling the material – he decided to pass. The role, of course, then went to Chris Tucker, who, alongside Jackie Chan, created an undeniable on-screen chemistry that propelled the movie into a massively successful franchise and cemented Tucker as a global star. Eddie even mused that Tucker and Chan were truly the perfect duo for that film, suggesting a sense of peace with the outcome, recognizing that some roles are just destined for others. It’s a testament to his humility, really.

It just goes to show you, even the most legendary performers have these pivotal career moments, full of choices that lead to different paths. Hindsight is a powerful thing, and while Eddie Murphy certainly doesn’t seem to be losing sleep over these decisions – after all, his career is the envy of many – it’s a delightful peek behind the curtain into the thought process of a star. It reminds us that every 'no' opens the door for a different 'yes,' and sometimes, that 'yes' leads to something even more perfect, for everyone involved.