We all have our ways of coping with difficult emotions, and for legendary comedian Eddie Murphy, funerals are simply “too much.” While he’s incredibly generous when it comes to supporting loved ones through loss, he draws a firm line at actually attending the ceremonies.
Generous, But Not Present
In a recent interview with USA Today, promoting his upcoming Netflix documentary “Being Eddie,” the 64-year-old star revealed a surprising detail about his approach to grief. “I’ve paid for a lot of funerals, but I don’t go to funerals,” Murphy stated plainly. He’s financially supported the final arrangements for notable figures like his “Harlem Nights” co-star Redd Foxx and musician Rick James, who famously collaborated with Murphy on his 1985 hit “Party All the Time.”
His generosity extends further; he’s also purchased tombstones for “Our Gang” actor William “Buckwheat” Thomas Jr. and Tim Moore, known for his role as Kingfish on “Amos’n’ Andy.” It’s clear Murphy wants to help ease the burden for grieving families, but he prefers to do so from a distance.
Why Funerals Are ‘Morbid’
Murphy admits he’s only attended two funerals in his entire life. The first was for his biological father, Charles Edward Murphy, who passed away tragically when Eddie was just eight years old. The second was for his stepfather, Vernon Lynch, who also served as his best man at his wedding to Nicole Murphy in 1993. These deeply personal experiences seem to have shaped his perspective.
He elaborated on his feelings, suggesting that perhaps funerals themselves are the issue. “They shouldn’t even have funerals,” he mused. “I’m like, ‘This funeral is morbid.’ The whole people in attendance, seeing your loved one out there — emotionally, the whole ritual is too much.”
No Funeral, No Fuss
When it comes to his own end-of-life plans, Murphy has a clear vision: cremation, and absolutely no funeral or memorial service. “When I kick out, I’m not having no funeral and be laying up there and people coming and looking at me, lowering me in the ground,” he explained. He wants to avoid any “trauma” associated with such events.
He’s equally unconcerned about what happens to his ashes. “I don’t give a f— what they do with them,” he said, with the caveat that he doesn’t want people gathered around his urn while crying. For Eddie Murphy, the goal is a smooth transition, free from the emotional intensity of a traditional farewell.
About ‘Being Eddie’
The documentary “Being Eddie” promises an in-depth look at the life and career of the comedy legend. It features interviews with a star-studded cast, including Dave Chappelle, Pete Davidson, Jamie Foxx, Tracy Morgan, Chris Rock, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Jerry Seinfeld. The film is set to premiere on Netflix on November 12.
What are your thoughts on Eddie Murphy’s perspective on funerals? Do you agree with his approach, or do you find value in the traditional rituals? Let us know in the comments!
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