Eddie Murphy’s distinctive voice has left an indelible mark on animated films and television shows, showcasing his versatility and comedic timing in the realm of voice acting. Beyond his celebrated live-action roles like his most recent work in Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, Murphy’s contributions to animated projects have been equally memorable and beloved by audiences of all ages. Read more about his underrated voiceover works inside.
One of Murphy’s most iconic voice roles is that of Donkey in the Shrek franchise film series, where his comedic genius brought the fast-talking, wise-cracking sidekick to life. Donkey’s irreverent humor and heartwarming moments were elevated by Murphy’s energetic delivery, making the character a standout in the franchise. He most recently revealed that there could be a spinoff starring him as Donkey.
Check out a behind-the-scenes clip of Murphy recording Donkey for Shrek below:
In Disney’s Mulan, Murphy lent his voice to Mushu, a small but spirited dragon tasked with guiding the titular heroine. Murphy infused Mushu with his trademark humor and charm, turning the character into a beloved fan favorite known for his hilarious antics and heartfelt moments of support for Mulan.
Check out a clip of Eddie’s best voiceover work below:
Transitioning to the small screen, Murphy voiced the lead character Thurgood Stubbs in the animated sitcom “The PJs.” Set in an inner-city housing project, the show provided a platform for Murphy to showcase his vocal talents in a socially relevant and comedic way. Thurgood’s stern but endearing persona was brought to life by Murphy’s voice, adding depth and authenticity to the character’s struggles and triumphs in everyday life.
Murphy’s success in voice acting lies not only in his ability to entertain but also in his skill to instill animated characters with distinct personalities and emotions. His contributions to Shrek, Mulan, and “The PJs” have cemented his legacy as a versatile performer capable of capturing hearts and tickling funny bones through the power of voice alone.
Whether delivering laugh-out-loud moments or poignant reflections, Eddie Murphy continues to leave a lasting impression in the world of animation, proving that his voice is truly a force to be reckoned with on screen, regardless of the form it takes.
We can’t wait to see what Eddie lends his voice to next.