Eddie Murphy, a name synonymous with comedy and charisma, continues to make waves in Hollywood and beyond in 2025. From starring in a new action-comedy to celebrating personal family milestones, the 64-year-old icon remains a cultural force. Known for his groundbreaking work on Saturday Night Live, blockbuster hits like Beverly Hills Cop, and his unforgettable voice as Donkey in Shrek, Murphy’s career spans decades and genres. This year, he’s back with fresh projects, heartfelt family moments, and a legacy that continues to inspire. Here’s a look at what’s new with Eddie Murphy in the USA.
The Pickup: A Star-Studded Action Comedy
One of the most exciting developments for Murphy fans is his starring role in The Pickup, an action-comedy set to premiere on Prime Video later this year. Directed by Tim Story, known for films like Barbershop and Ride Along, the movie pairs Murphy with Pete Davidson and Keke Palmer in a high-energy heist story. Murphy plays Russell, an armored truck driver who, alongside his mismatched partner Travis (Davidson), gets ambushed by a cunning criminal mastermind, Zoe (Palmer). The plot promises a blend of clever humor and thrilling action, with a routine cash pickup spiraling into chaos.
The film boasts a diverse ensemble cast, including Eva Longoria, Marshawn Lynch, Joe “Roman Reigns” Anoa’i, Andrew Dice Clay, and Ismael Cruz Córdova. Produced by Murphy’s own Eddie Murphy Productions alongside Davis Entertainment and The Story Company, The Pickup has generated buzz with first-look stills and a poster released by Amazon MGM Studios. Despite a stunt accident during production that briefly halted progress, the film is now in full promotion mode, with fans eager for its streaming debut. This project showcases Murphy’s signature comedic flair, making it a must-watch for his long-time admirers and new audiences alike. Learn more about The Pickup.
Shrek 5 and Donkey’s Solo Adventure
Murphy’s voice work as Donkey in the Shrek franchise remains one of his most beloved contributions to film. In 2025, he confirmed exciting news for fans: Shrek 5 is slated for release on December 23, 2026, and a standalone Donkey movie is in development. During an interview, Murphy shared, “I did the first act, and we’ll be doing it this year, we’ll finish it up. Shrek is coming out, and Donkey’s gonna have his own movie.” This announcement has sparked anticipation, as Donkey’s quick wit and heartwarming charm have made him a fan favorite. The prospect of a Donkey spin-off highlights Murphy’s enduring influence in animation and his ability to breathe life into iconic characters. Read more about Shrek 5 and the Donkey spin-off.
A New Family Connection: In-Laws with Martin Lawrence
On a personal note, Murphy made headlines in May 2025 when he revealed on The Jennifer Hudson Show that his son, Eric Murphy, 35, married Jasmin Page Lawrence, 29, the daughter of fellow comedy legend Martin Lawrence. The couple, who announced their engagement in November 2024, opted for an intimate church ceremony about two weeks prior to Murphy’s appearance on the show. “We’re in-laws,” Murphy said, referring to his new familial tie with Lawrence, his co-star in Boomerang (1992) and Life (1999). He humorously noted that Lawrence “doesn’t have to pay for the big wedding now,” as the couple chose a private ceremony but plans a larger celebration later.
Fans celebrated the union, with one calling it “a special union between two iconic families.” The marriage connects two comedy dynasties, and Murphy hinted at a potential professional reunion with Lawrence, mentioning a desire to remake the 1960s comedy It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World with a cast of top Black comedians. This personal milestone underscores Murphy’s role as a family man, balancing his Hollywood career with his life as a father of 10. More details on the wedding.
Co-Parenting Success with Mel B
Murphy’s family life also includes a strong co-parenting relationship with Mel B, the Spice Girls singer, with whom he shares an 18-year-old daughter, Angel. In a recent interview with Us Weekly, Mel B praised Murphy as a “proper father,” noting that their bond has “flourished” in recent years. Despite challenges following their 2006 breakup, including Murphy’s initial questioning of Angel’s paternity, the two have built a positive dynamic. Mel B shared that Angel spends quality time with her father, including going on holidays together. She also recalled Murphy’s regret over past actions, emphasizing his growth as a parent. This story highlights Murphy’s commitment to his children, who range in age from 6 to 35, and his ability to maintain meaningful relationships across his expansive family..
Reflecting on a Legendary Career
Murphy’s 2025 activities come on the heels of a career that redefined comedy. Rising to fame at 19 on Saturday Night Live, he became a household name with films like 48 Hrs. (1982), Trading Places (1983), and Beverly Hills Cop (1984). His stand-up specials, Delirious (1983) and Raw (1987), set records, with Raw still holding a place as a top-grossing comedy film. Posts on X have celebrated Murphy’s 1980s run, comparing his cultural impact to icons like Michael Jackson and Mike Tyson. One user noted, “It didn’t matter what race you were, you was rockin w/ Eddie in the 80’s.”.
Murphy’s versatility shines through in his reflections on past decisions. In an Apple TV+ documentary, Number One on the Call Sheet: Black Leading Men in Hollywood, he shared how Sidney Poitier advised him against taking the role of Alex Haley in Malcolm X. Poitier suggested Murphy wasn’t suited for the part, which went to Denzel Washington under Spike Lee’s direction. Murphy admitted he was unsure if Poitier’s advice was “an insult or a compliment” but acknowledged his unique place in Hollywood, saying, “I was in uncharted waters.” This anecdote reveals Murphy’s humility and willingness to learn from industry elders..
Looking Ahead: Murphy’s Lasting Impact
As Murphy continues to take on new projects, his influence remains undeniable. His recent appearance on Saturday Night Live’s 50th anniversary special, where he performed a Tracy Morgan impression in the “Black Jeopardy” sketch, reminded audiences of his comedic roots.. Meanwhile, stories like Conan O’Brien recalling a near car accident with Murphy in the 1980s add a lighthearted glimpse into his life off-screen. O’Brien shared on his podcast how he almost collided with Murphy during the filming of The Golden Child, highlighting the actor’s larger-than-life presence even in everyday moments..
Murphy’s ability to balance blockbuster films, family life, and personal growth keeps him relevant. Whether he’s cracking jokes as Donkey, leading a heist in The Pickup, or celebrating his son’s marriage, he remains a beloved figure. His story is one of resilience, humor, and heart, proving why he’s still a star in 2025.
Conclusion
Eddie Murphy’s 2025 is a testament to his enduring talent and charm. With The Pickup set to entertain audiences, Shrek 5 and a Donkey movie on the horizon, and personal milestones like his son’s marriage to Martin Lawrence’s daughter, Murphy continues to captivate. His legacy as a trailblazer in comedy and film, coupled with his dedication as a father, ensures his place in Hollywood’s history. As fans await his next moves, one thing is clear: Eddie Murphy’s star power shows no signs of fading.
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