Insights from the Documentary

In a revealing interview for the Apple TV+ documentary Number One on the Call Sheet: Black Leading Men in Hollywood, Eddie Murphy discussed pivotal moments in his career, focusing particularly on a conversation he had with the legendary Sidney Poitier regarding the film Malcolm X.

Poitier’s Guidance

Murphy recounted his experience when he was approached for a role in Malcolm X, which was initially being developed by director Norman Jewison. The movie was based on The Autobiography of Malcolm X, co-authored by Alex Haley, and Murphy was considered for the part of Alex Haley himself. During this time, he sought advice from Poitier, whom he encountered at an event. In that moment, Poitier advised him, saying, “You are not Denzel [Washington], and you are not Morgan [Freeman]. You are a breath of fresh air, and don’t fuck with that!”

Context and Reflection

Murphy reflected on this advice, expressing uncertainty over whether it was meant as a compliment or an insult. “I was like, ‘What?’” he said, exemplifying his surprise at being compared to two of Hollywood’s most esteemed actors.

Delving deeper into Poitier’s perspective, Murphy speculated that the older generation of actors felt he was navigating uncharted waters. He noted, “For Sidney and all those guys, when I showed up, it was something kinda new. They didn’t have a reference for me; they couldn’t give me advice, because I was 20, 21 years old, and my audience was the mainstream — all of everywhere.” His rapid rise to fame was unprecedented for a young Black actor at the time, complicating the mentorship he sought.

Success of ‘Malcolm X’

Ultimately, the film transitioned to a new direction under director Spike Lee, who cast Denzel Washington in the titular role. Malcolm X received critical acclaim and did remarkably well at the box office, with Washington earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. In contrast, Murphy would eventually receive an Oscar nomination himself years later for his role in Dreamgirls, showcasing his own evolution in the industry.

Where to Watch

The documentary Number One on the Call Sheet: Black Leading Men in Hollywood is currently available for streaming on Apple TV+.