Eddie Murphy

Eddie Murphy Still Got It: Hilarious Tracy Morgan Impression Steals the Show at 'SNL's' 50th Anniversary

Eddie Murphy, a comedic icon who rose to fame on "Saturday Night Live," proved he's still got the magic touch. During the star-studded "SNL 50" anniversary special, Murphy delivered a side-splitting impression of fellow comedian Tracy Morgan during a "Black Jeopardy" sketch that had the audience roaring. The moment, made even funnier by Morgan's presence on stage, instantly became a highlight of the evening. With buzz around the event hitting a traffic volume of 50,000, it's clear that Murphy's return to his old stomping grounds was a major draw.

Eddie Murphy's Triumphant Return: 'Black Jeopardy' Rescue Mission

The "SNL 50" special aimed to celebrate the show's rich history, and what better way than to bring back classic sketches and iconic cast members? According to Deadline, Eddie Murphy single-handedly "rescued" the "Black Jeopardy" sketch with his impeccable impersonation of Tracy Morgan. The sketch, already a fan favorite, featured Murphy, Tom Hanks, Tracy Morgan, and Leslie Jones as contestants. But it was Murphy's spot-on portrayal of Morgan that truly elevated the segment.

Variety also highlighted Murphy's performance, noting that the "Black Jeopardy" segment was a key part of the anniversary special. The reunion of comedic powerhouses on one stage created a memorable moment for viewers and solidified Murphy's status as an "SNL" legend.

Recent Updates: A Timeline of the 'SNL 50' Buzz

Here's a quick rundown of the recent events surrounding Eddie Murphy's appearance on "SNL 50":

• February 2025: "SNL 50" airs, featuring Eddie Murphy in the "Black Jeopardy" sketch.
• Post-Airing: Media outlets like Deadline and Variety publish articles praising Murphy's performance and highlighting the success of the sketch.
• Social Media Frenzy: Clips of Murphy's Tracy Morgan impression go viral, generating significant buzz and discussion online.

Contextual Background: Eddie Murphy, 'SNL,' and the Legacy of Comedy

To fully appreciate the significance of this moment, it's important to understand the history between Eddie Murphy and "Saturday Night Live." Murphy joined the cast in 1980 at the young age of 19 and quickly became a breakout star. His characters, including Buckwheat, Mr. Robinson, and Gumby, became instant classics and helped revitalize the show. According to Britannica, Murphy's comedy was "largely personal and observational and at times raunchy," and he was known as a skillful impersonator.

Murphy's departure from "SNL" in 1984 to pursue a film career marked the end of an era for the show. He went on to star in blockbuster movies like "48 Hours," "Beverly Hills Cop," and "Coming to America," solidifying his status as a Hollywood A-lister. As Biography.com notes, at the age of 21, Murphy was already co-starring with Nick Nolte, showcasing his rapid rise to fame.

His return to "SNL" for the 40th anniversary in 2015 was met with anticipation, but some felt his appearance was underwhelming. This made his performance at the 50th-anniversary special even more meaningful, proving that he could still command the stage and deliver the laughs.

Tracy Morgan's career trajectory also adds context to the sketch. Morgan, known for his work on "SNL" and "30 Rock," has faced personal challenges, including a serious car accident in 2014. His presence alongside Murphy, poking fun at himself, showcased his resilience and good humor.

Immediate Effects: Social Media Explodes with Praise

The immediate impact of Murphy's "SNL 50" appearance was a surge of positive reactions on social media. Fans praised his comedic timing, his accurate impersonation of Tracy Morgan, and his overall contribution to the show. The sketch quickly became a trending topic, with users sharing clips and memes.

The success of the "Black Jeopardy" segment also highlighted the enduring appeal of the sketch format and the importance of diversity in comedy. The inclusion of Leslie Jones, another "SNL" alum, alongside Murphy, Morgan, and Hanks, created a dynamic and engaging ensemble.

Future Outlook: Will We See More of Eddie Murphy on 'SNL'?

The positive reception to Eddie Murphy's "SNL 50" appearance raises the question: will we see more of him on the show in the future? While there's no official word on any future collaborations, the success of this performance certainly opens the door for potential guest appearances or even hosting gigs.

According to IMDb, Edward Regan Murphy was born on April 3, 1961, in Brooklyn, New York. His early life, marked by the loss of his father, shaped his ambition and drive. He began performing stand-up comedy as a teenager, honing his skills and developing his unique comedic voice. This early experience prepared him for the demanding world of "SNL" and the challenges of a Hollywood career.

The success of "SNL 50" also suggests a renewed interest in the show's history and legacy. As "SNL" continues to evolve and adapt to changing times, it's important to remember the contributions of past cast members like Eddie Murphy, who helped shape the show's identity and influence on American comedy.

While it's impossible to predict the future with certainty, one thing is clear: Eddie Murphy's performance at "SNL 50" was a resounding success, reminding audiences of his comedic genius and solidifying his place as an "SNL" legend. The sketch not only provided laughs but also celebrated the show's rich history and the enduring power of comedy. Whether he returns to "SNL" in the future remains to be seen, but his impact on the show and on comedy as a whole is undeniable. And let's be real, who wouldn't want to see more of Eddie Murphy doing what he does best? The buzz is there, the talent is undeniable, and the audience is clearly ready for it.