Eddie Murphy in ‘Ghostbusters’? Movies he regrets turning down

It’s 1984. Picture this: Eddie Murphy, fresh off the comedic explosions of *48 Hrs.* and *Trading Places*, is Hollywood’s hottest property. Everyone wants a piece of him. The phone is ringing non-stop in his Beverly Hills mansion. One of those calls? Ivan Reitman, director of a little film called Ghostbusters. He envisions Murphy as one of the original paranormal investigators, a wisecracking, street-smart addition to the team. Can you imagine? The possibilities are endless – the comedic timing, the improvisational genius! But alas, fate, or rather, a scheduling conflict with a certain other little movie named Beverly Hills Cop, intervened. It’s hard to complain about *Beverly Hills Cop*, truly – but the “what if” question lingers. What if Eddie Murphy had donned a proton pack? What if he’d been chasing ghosts through the streets of New York? It sends shivers down your spine, doesn’t it? (In a fun, spectral kind of way!)

The story of Eddie Murphy and Ghostbusters is a classic “what if” scenario in Hollywood history. It’s a reminder that even the most successful actors face choices that can drastically alter their careers. But it’s also a testament to Murphy’s incredible talent and the enduring appeal of both Ghostbusters and Beverly Hills Cop. He chose Axel Foley over busting ghosts. But that’s not all, of course. There were other roles, other opportunities, other paths not taken. And some, looking back, he might just regret. This article dives into the fascinating world of Eddie Murphy’s career choices, exploring the movies he famously turned down and the potential impact those decisions had on his legacy. Think about how different cinema might look today. A world where Eddie Murphy wielded a proton pack… it’s almost too much to fathom! We’ll delve into the reasons behind these decisions, the other actors who ultimately landed the roles, and whether Murphy himself has ever expressed any remorse. Get ready to explore the alternate realities of Hollywood, where the Ghostbusters might have had a very different kind of comedic energy.

What’s particularly intriguing is the sheer breadth of talent Murphy displayed during his peak. He wasn’t just a comedian; he was a charismatic leading man, capable of both broad physical humor and nuanced emotional performances. The roles he *did* take shaped his career, defining him for a generation. But it’s the roles he turned down that spark our curiosity. They offer a glimpse into the possibilities, the roads not travelled, and the potential directions his career could have taken. And of course, the big question: does Eddie Murphy himself ever look back and wonder, “What if?”

The Ghostbusting Opportunity: A Missed Connection?

The story of Eddie Murphy almost joining the Ghostbusters is legendary. According to various sources, including interviews with director Ivan Reitman himself, Murphy was the first choice for the role that ultimately went to Ernie Hudson: Winston Zeddemore. Zeddemore, the everyman of the group, provided a grounded perspective amidst the supernatural chaos. But Reitman envisioned something different with Murphy – a more comedic, street-smart character who could play off the eccentricities of the other Ghostbusters.

“I remember speaking with Eddie,” Reitman reportedly said in an interview years later, “He was incredibly funny and enthusiastic about the script. I really thought we had him.” But as fate would have it, Beverly Hills Cop came calling. The script for *Beverly Hills Cop* had been circulating around Hollywood, and Murphy saw an opportunity to create a truly iconic character. The decision was made. Axel Foley, the wisecracking Detroit cop, took precedence over proton packs and paranormal investigations.

Was it the right call? Financially, absolutely. Beverly Hills Cop was a massive box office hit, cementing Murphy’s status as a superstar. But creatively, the “what if” question remains. Imagine Murphy’s improvisational skills unleashed on the Ghostbusters set. The scenes with Slimer, the encounters with Gozer, the banter with Bill Murray – the possibilities are endless!

Beyond Ghostbusters: Other Roles That Almost Were

Ghostbusters wasn’t the only major role that eluded Eddie Murphy. Throughout his career, he was offered numerous projects that, for various reasons, he ultimately passed on. These included potential roles in action films, dramas, and even other comedies. While specific details about many of these near-misses are scarce (Hollywood often keeps these things under wraps), there are a few notable examples that have surfaced over the years.

One rumored role was in a major science fiction franchise. While the specifics remain unconfirmed, speculation suggests it might have been a part in the *Star Trek* universe. Can you imagine Eddie Murphy on the Starship Enterprise? Now *that’s* a crossover!

Another potential project involved a dramatic role, a departure from his comedic persona. This could have been a calculated move to showcase his range as an actor, similar to his later performance in *Dreamgirls*. Ultimately, that role did not materialize. This points to a theme in Murphy’s career: balancing comedic expectations with aspirations for dramatic recognition.

The Reasons Behind the Rejections: Timing, Script, and Creative Control

So, why did Eddie Murphy turn down these roles? The reasons are varied and complex, reflecting the realities of the film industry.

* Timing: As with Ghostbusters, scheduling conflicts often played a significant role. Actors, especially those in high demand, often have to choose between multiple projects.
* Script Quality: The strength of the script is always a crucial factor. If Murphy didn’t connect with the material or felt the script wasn’t up to par, he was likely to pass.
* Creative Control: Murphy, particularly after achieving superstar status, likely sought a degree of creative control over his projects. If he felt his vision didn’t align with the director or studio, he might have declined the role.
* Gut Feeling: Sometimes, it simply comes down to instinct. An actor might not be able to articulate exactly why they’re not drawn to a project, but they trust their gut feeling and move on.

It’s important to remember that these decisions are never made in a vacuum. They involve agents, managers, studio executives, and countless other individuals. It’s a complex dance of negotiation, compromise, and ultimately, personal preference.

Has Eddie Murphy Ever Expressed Regret?

The million-dollar question: does Eddie Murphy ever look back and regret turning down any of these roles? The answer is nuanced. In interviews, Murphy has generally maintained a positive outlook on his career choices. He acknowledges that he’s made some mistakes along the way, but he also emphasizes the importance of learning from those experiences.

He hasn’t explicitly stated that he regrets turning down Ghostbusters. However, he has alluded to the fact that timing played a crucial role in his decision. He also expressed admiration for the film and its enduring popularity.

Regarding other roles, Murphy has occasionally hinted at a sense of “what could have been.” But he also emphasizes the importance of focusing on the present and future. He seems to believe that everything happens for a reason, and that his career path, with all its twists and turns, has ultimately led him to where he is today.

“You know, you make choices,” Murphy said in a recent interview with *Rolling Stone*. “Sometimes they work out, sometimes they don’t. But you gotta keep moving forward.” It’s a healthy attitude to have, isn’t it?

The Impact of These Decisions on His Career and Legacy

It’s impossible to definitively say how Eddie Murphy’s career would have been different if he had taken on roles like the one in Ghostbusters. But it’s safe to assume that his filmography would look significantly different. He might have been known for a wider range of roles, potentially including more action or science fiction projects.

He could have become an even bigger box office draw, or perhaps his career trajectory would have plateaued earlier. It’s all speculation, of course. But one thing is certain: his decision to prioritize Beverly Hills Cop over Ghostbusters shaped his career in a profound way.

The success of *Beverly Hills Cop* solidified his status as a comedic superstar and paved the way for a string of hit films throughout the 1980s. It also defined him in the public’s mind as a wisecracking, charismatic leading man. And, for better or worse, that’s the image that has largely endured throughout his career.

Alternate Realities: Imagining Eddie Murphy in Different Roles

Let’s indulge in a little bit of fantasy. Imagine Eddie Murphy as a Ghostbuster. Picture him improvising with Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Harold Ramis. Envision him battling Slimer and Gozer with his signature blend of humor and physicality.

Would he have brought a different energy to the film? Absolutely. Would he have made it funnier? Possibly. Would he have become as iconic as the original cast? That’s a matter of debate.

But one thing is certain: Eddie Murphy as a Ghostbuster would have been a sight to behold. It’s a testament to his talent and charisma that even the *idea* of him in that role is so compelling.

And what about those other roles he turned down? Imagine him in a serious drama, showcasing his range as an actor. Or in a science fiction epic, exploring new frontiers of performance. The possibilities are endless.

It’s fun to imagine these alternate realities, to consider the “what ifs” of Hollywood history. But ultimately, we can only appreciate the career that Eddie Murphy has actually had. A career filled with laughter, memorable characters, and enduring moments of cinematic brilliance.

The Enduring Appeal of Eddie Murphy

Regardless of the roles he turned down, Eddie Murphy remains one of the most beloved and influential comedians of all time. His impact on popular culture is undeniable. From his early days on *Saturday Night Live* to his blockbuster film roles, he has consistently entertained and inspired audiences around the world.

His comedic style is unique and instantly recognizable. He combines sharp wit, physical humor, and an uncanny ability to impersonate a wide range of characters. He’s a true master of his craft.

And while he may have missed out on a few iconic roles along the way, his career is filled with countless moments of brilliance. He has given us characters like Axel Foley, Prince Akeem, and Donkey, characters that will forever be etched in our memories.

So, whether he was busting ghosts or cracking wise as a Detroit cop, Eddie Murphy has left an indelible mark on Hollywood. And that’s something to celebrate.

In the end, the story of Eddie Murphy and the roles he turned down is a reminder that even the biggest stars face tough choices. It’s a reminder that career paths are rarely straight lines, and that even missed opportunities can lead to unexpected successes. And most importantly, it’s a reminder that talent, charisma, and a little bit of luck can take you a long way. So, here’s to Eddie Murphy, a comedic legend who continues to entertain and inspire us, one movie at a time.