In a recent revelation nearly two decades post-release, Eddie Murphy defends his controversial movie, Norbit, a film that sparked a barrage of criticism upon its 2007 debut. In an interview on 360 With Speedy, Murphy opened up about his enduring affection for the film and offered insights into the backlash it received. His remarks not only shed light on the challenges of comedy in Hollywood but also express a deep personal connection to the project, co-written with his late brother, Charlie Murphy.
Murphy’s Fondness for Norbit
Eddie Murphy, 64, expressed his deep fondness for Norbit, emphasizing that he co-wrote the script alongside his brother, Charlie. Reflecting on this connection during an August 2025 interview, he stated, “I love Norbit. Norbit came out right after I got that Oscar nomination. There were articles like, ‘How can he get an Oscar, he did this?’ They’re two different movies.” This comment illustrates Murphy’s belief that cinematic merit should be evaluated independently, highlighting the contrast between his Oscar-nominated role in Dreamgirls and his portrayal in Norbit.
The Backlash and Humor in Norbit
Despite the backlash, Murphy maintains that Norbit is genuinely entertaining. “To this day, I like Norbit. There’s stuff in Norbit that makes me laugh,” he said. In defending his choices, he recalled the Razzie Awards, where he received nominations for worst actress, worst actor, and worst actor of the decade. “And I was like, ‘Come on now, s— ain’t that bad.’ They was just hatin’ on me,” he quipped, unapologetically standing by his comedic ventures.
A Different Perspective on Comedy
Murphy also offered a unique perspective on the narrative of Norbit, likening it to the classic fairytale, Cinderella. He articulated, “The core of our story is Cinderella. [Rasputia is] his wife, but she’s like the evil stepsister. This is not real people. It’s old story stuff.” His comparison suggests that the film draws upon familiar storytelling elements rather than intending to offend. He further argued that the creative risks he took in Norbit should be recognized, just as his more serious roles garnered praise.
Reflections on Evolution as an Actor
Murphy’s comments highlight a broader discourse on how comedians often struggle for recognition in dramatic roles. He noted, “I got a [Oscar] nomination for stepping outside myself. I didn’t think I would ever [get nominated for an Oscar]. In The Nutty Professor, I played six people, seven people in the movie. But because it’s a comedy. They don’t look at how funny it is.” This reflection underscores a persistent bias in the film industry, where comedic performances are frequently undervalued compared to dramatic ones.
Eddie Murphy’s defense of Norbit nearly two decades after its premiere serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in creating comedy. It highlights how personal connections and societal perceptions impact the reception of artistic work. Murphy’s unwavering support for Norbit paints a picture of an artist who values creativity, humor, and the relationships that influence the filmmaking process.
