Sidney Poitier Advised Eddie Murphy Against Taking a Dramatic Role

By Jurassic JennMar 26, 2025 14:29 PMStar Facts
Share:
Sidney Poitier Advised Eddie Murphy Against Taking a Dramatic Role
Sidney Poitier (left) and Eddie Murphy. . Source: Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic

In the new Apple TV+ documentary 'Number One on the Call Sheet', Eddie Murphy discusses advice he received from Hollywood icon Sidney Poitier. Murphy reflects, "I don’t know if it was an insult or a compliment." This advice came during talks about a role in a film version of 'The Autobiography of Malcolm X'.

At the time, Poitier advised Murphy to focus on his comedic strengths. He said, "You are not Denzel, and you are not Morgan. You are a breath of fresh air. And don’t f--- with that." This guidance led Murphy to turn down the opportunity to portray Alex Haley. Murphy acknowledges that sticking to comedy was the right choice for him.

Malcolm X.
Malcolm X. Source: Robert Parent/Getty

Mentorship from Hollywood Greats

In Number One on the Call Sheet, Murphy recounts additional advice from industry legends. He remembers Marlon Brando and references former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes, who told him, "Don’t forget where you came from." Additionally, James Brown offered blunt advice about his career.

Brown once advised Murphy to stop cursing to maintain professionalism in show business. The conversation turned humorous when Brown told Murphy he might not have a million dollars, suggesting he bury any savings to protect it from the government. Murphy reflects on it as unforgettable advice.

 

Navigating Uncharted Waters in Hollywood

Murphy expressed how challenging it was to balance uniqueness as a young Black performer. He felt that he was in uncharted territory, stating, "For Sidney and all those guys, when I showed up, it was something kind of new." The support from established actors like Poitier helped shape his career.

The documentary highlights the significance of representation in Hollywood. Alongside Murphy, stars like Denzel Washington, Viola Davis, Jamie Foxx, and Angela Bassett share their experiences in the industry.

Earlier, SSP wrote that Jason Tartick hospitalized after "crawling on all fours" due to back pain.

Eddie Murphy in 1984's 'Beverly Hills Cop'
Eddie Murphy in 1984's 'Beverly Hills Cop'
Top Articles
What double rainbow means in spiritual sense

Meaning of double rainbow as a spiritual sign from above

Oct 16, 2024 13:27 PM
Symbolism and meaning of crickets

Symbolism and meaning of the cricket as a spirit animal

Oct 15, 2024 13:01 PM

Meaning of the yellow butterfly. Symbolism and spiritual meaning of the encounter

Oct 15, 2024 15:05 PM

Keep seeing the number of angel 2222? Read its spiritual meaning

Oct 14, 2024 17:01 PM
More News
Founder of Wood Trick - Dmitry Antonenko

Dmitry Antonenko: The Ukrainian Innovator Who Challenged LEGO

Apr 6, 2025 19:20 PM
Belly Button Piercing

Beyond Beauty: The Spiritual Symbolism of Belly Button Piercings

Apr 1, 2025 21:16 PM

What does a Palm Mean in Your Dream?

Apr 1, 2025 20:54 PM

Three zodiac signs are entering a period ripe for self-reflection and inner growth

Apr 1, 2025 19:52 PM
The Spiritual Meaning of Mushrooms in Your Yard

The Spiritual Meaning of Mushrooms in Your Yard

Apr 1, 2025 17:53 PM
Embracing life's pleasures while being mindful: horoscope for April

Embracing life's pleasures while being mindful: horoscope for April

Apr 1, 2025 17:42 PM
Three Zodiac Signs Facing Tests of Patience

Three Zodiac Signs Facing Tests of Patience

Apr 1, 2025 16:17 PM
Exploring new career paths and seek fresh opportunities: horoscope for April

Exploring new career paths and seek fresh opportunities: horoscope for April

Apr 1, 2025 14:29 PM
Three zodiac signs are set for transformative growth and fulfillment

Three zodiac signs are set for transformative growth and fulfillment

Apr 1, 2025 12:21 PM

The emotional highs and lows may happen more frequently: horoscope for April

Apr 1, 2025 11:18 AM

Three zodiac signs will find themselves imbued with a sense of adventure: horoscope for April 1

Apr 1, 2025 10:34 AM
 The Rotten Egg Smell in Your Home: A Spiritual Meaning

The Rotten Egg Smell in Your Home: A Spiritual Meaning

Apr 1, 2025 10:13 AM
Familial Conflicts Ahead for Three Zodiac Signs

Familial Conflicts Ahead for Three Zodiac Signs

Apr 1, 2025 09:51 AM
Three zodiac signs will experience a surge in humor: horoscope for April 1

Three zodiac signs will experience a surge in humor: horoscope for April 1

Apr 1, 2025 09:08 AM
Three zodiac signs are encouraged to tap into their visionary thinking: horoscope for April 1

Three zodiac signs are encouraged to tap into their visionary thinking: horoscope for April 1

Apr 1, 2025 08:26 AM

The Sacred Posture: The Spiritual Power of Kneeling Across Faiths

Apr 1, 2025 08:03 AM

Three zodiac signs will experience a surge of energy: horoscope for April 1

Apr 1, 2025 07:43 AM
What Does a Jackal Symbolize in Your Dream?

What Does a Jackal Symbolize in Your Dream?

Apr 1, 2025 07:22 AM
A sense of contentment and happiness: horoscope for April

A sense of contentment and happiness: horoscope for April

Apr 1, 2025 07:03 AM
Three zodiac signs can expect promising career developments

Three zodiac signs can expect promising career developments

Mar 31, 2025 21:37 PM
What does a Cobra mean in your dream?

What does a Cobra mean in your dream?

Mar 31, 2025 20:54 PM
Three zodiac signs are poised to embark on a transformative journey

Three zodiac signs are poised to embark on a transformative journey

Mar 31, 2025 20:33 PM

Helen Mirren Critiques James Bond Films for ‘Profound Sexism’

Mar 31, 2025 20:15 PM

Three zodiac signs should be ready for a life-altering surge in luck and success at the beginning of 2026

Mar 31, 2025 20:15 PM
 Kanye West States He Never Wanted Children with Kim Kardashian

Kanye West States He Never Wanted Children with Kim Kardashian

Mar 31, 2025 19:25 PM
Three zodiac signs expected to embrace spontaneity without fear: horoscope for March 31

Three zodiac signs expected to embrace spontaneity without fear: horoscope for March 31

Mar 31, 2025 19:08 PM