Of course, we love Eddie Murphy for his comedy, but what makes him so great at his craft he really gets into the characters. He’s played so many icon characters for over 6 decades. You can’t choose just one. Here are 6 of the greatest characters in his films.
Quick – “Harlem Nights”
He plays a young, hotheaded character named Vernest Brown aka Quick. He got his name because he’s quick to whoop someone’s *you know what*. He’s the adopted son of Sugar Ray, who runs a casino/club.
Rayford Gibson – “Life”
He’s a smooth-talking and slick Southern cat that’s out to run scams on people. His role in “Life” is perfect because it aligns so well with Martin Lawrence’s character, Claude Banks. Unfortunately, they were framed for murdering a guy named Hancock. They miss 60 years of their life because they were incarcerated for something they didn’t do.
Chandler Jarrell – “The Golden Child”
A social worker turns into a hero when he’s called upon to save the Golden Child, who’s able to bring balance to the world. His role as Chandler Jarrell is a classic 80s Asian flick that has a bit of a cult following.
Dr. John Dolittle – “Dr. Dolittle”
He plays a well-known veterinarian named Dr. John Dolittle, who has an uncanny ability to speak with animals. It’s an ability he had when he was a kid but wanted to get rid of it because people thought he was crazy. It serves him well into his adult when it gains the power back.
Prince Akeem – “Coming to America”
The future king of Zamunda is out to search for his queen. He wants to own his destiny and is able to find Ms. Lisa McDowell in the heart of Queens, New York. This is also a classic film because he plays different characters throughout the film. The sequel, “Coming 2 America” is due for a 2021 release.
Billy Ray Valentine – “Trading Places”
A guy down to his last pennies, Billy Ray Valentine, is out there trying to hustle people for money on the streets. However, he has a penchant for business as a streetwise guy that knows about money. The Duke Brothers put him in a position to earn a handsome yearly salary as well as change his living situation.