Sidney Poitier Told Eddie Murphy to Turn Down One Dramatic Movie Role: ‘You Are Not Denzel, and You Are Not Morgan’

Sidney Poitier advised Eddie Murphy to decline a role in a dramatic movie, telling him: ‘You are not Denzel, and you are not Morgan’. In a new Apple TV+ documentary titled ‘Number One on the Call Sheet’, Murphy, known for his comedic roles in hits like ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ and ‘Coming to America’, recounts the moment when he sought advice from the legendary actor Sidney Poitier.

Though Murphy received critical acclaim for his dramatic portrayal in ‘Dreamgirls’, he mostly stuck to comedy throughout his career. Sidney Poitier’s advice urged him not to venture into the dramatic territory handled by actors like Denzel Washington and Morgan Freeman. This insightful encounter is shared by Murphy in the documentary, offering viewers a glimpse into the wisdom passed down to him by industry veterans.

Reflecting on the past, Murphy recalls the moment Poitier advised him against playing Alex Haley in a production about Malcolm X. Poitier’s words resonated with Murphy as he realised the importance of staying true to his unique comedic style, steering away from roles that may not align with his strengths as an actor.

Throughout his career, Murphy received guidance from various influential figures, including Marlon Brando, Larry Holmes, and James Brown. The anecdotes shared in the documentary shed light on the different perspectives and advice Murphy received from these notable personalities, offering valuable insights into his journey in Hollywood.

In the documentary, Murphy delves into the challenges he faced as a young and successful Black man in an industry that lacked reference points for his unique trajectory. The absence of a blueprint for his success presented a novel situation for both Murphy and the industry veterans who crossed paths with him.

Joining Murphy in sharing their experiences are other prominent Black actors like Denzel Washington, Jamie Foxx, Will Smith, and Viola Davis. The documentary, split into episodes focusing on ‘Black Leading Men in Hollywood’ and ‘Black Leading Women in Hollywood’, promises a deep dive into the experiences and perspectives of these actors in the industry.

With insights from Murphy and other Black leading actors, ‘Number One on the Call Sheet’ offers a rare glimpse into the challenges and triumphs faced by Black actors in Hollywood. By showcasing the journeys of these talented individuals, the documentary aims to spark conversations about representation and diversity in the entertainment industry.

As the documentary premieres on March 28 on Apple TV+, viewers can look forward to gaining a deeper understanding of the struggles and successes of these actors. Through their narratives, audiences can appreciate the resilience and talent of Black actors who continue to make their mark in an industry that is constantly evolving.

In a world where representation matters, ‘Number One on the Call Sheet’ provides a platform for these actors to share their stories and inspire future generations of talent. As the documentary unfolds, viewers are invited to witness the transformative power of storytelling and the impact of diverse voices in shaping the narrative of Hollywood.