Eddie Murphy is suited to one of the most iconic detective roles in comedy.
The Beverly Hills cop star marked the first major installment of the franchise since 2009, confirming that he plays Inspector Jack Crusau in the upcoming Pink Panther film.
Murphy made a presentation in today’s interview. He surprised the surprising Al Roker with the news while listing his current projects.
“I’m ready to do George Clinton, Congressional Hunkaletic, I’m ready to do George Clinton,” Murphy said. “I’ve already started Shrek 5, and I’m going to be. I’m the next Pink Panther inspector.”
Clearly caught off guard, Roker asked for clarity and urged Murphy to confirm, “Yeah, I’m a new crousse.”
French, Haitian…or Eddie?
When asked if Crew was still French in this version, Murphy leaned over the comedy: “Maybe,” he said. “Well, he has to be French, but he can also become Haitian. He says he is black. He is black.”
While details of this new take’s tone and plot remain under the rap, Murphy’s casting suggests a return to a big, character-driven comedy for the long-term franchise.
Follow in the footsteps of sellers (and Martin)
Murphy takes the baton from Peter Sellers. Peter Sellers made the nasty French detective famous in 1963’s Pink Panther and several sequels before handing it to Steve Martin in a mid-2000s reboot. That version spanned two films (2006 and 2009), and was largely panned by critics, with the second film winning just 13% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Murphy’s version comes after years of speculation. The comedian was previously linked to the role in 2023. His confirmation is now hoping to set the stage for the franchise’s 12th film, regaining the slapstick and refined tone that defined the original entry.
Murphy’s Full Slate: From Donkeys to Funk Legends
The Pink Panther movie is just one of several major projects related to Murphy’s Docket. In addition to calling out the asses once more in Shrek 5 (and potential Lonkey solo film), he, along with Pete Davidson and Keke Palmer, will be appearing in the upcoming Prime Video action comedy, Pickup, and ready to perform funk icon George Clinton in his biography.
Looking back on his evolving career, Murphy said in an interview that he is no longer a young and wise lead. “Normally, I’m a young Maverick guy.
He also joked about the sacrifice of performing action scenes in the ’60s. “When you get older, you have to pay. If you whip someone’s butt when you’re at our age, you whip your butt too.”
