Overview

• Eddie Murphy shared that Sidney Poitier advised him against playing Alex Haley in the initial version of 'Malcolm X,' directed by Norman Jewison.
• Poitier told Murphy he was 'a breath of fresh air' and should not model his career after actors like Denzel Washington or Morgan Freeman.
• Murphy described his early career as 'uncharted waters,' with unprecedented global success for a young Black actor in mainstream Hollywood.
• Spike Lee eventually directed 'Malcolm X,' overcoming significant financial hurdles with support from prominent Black figures, and earned critical acclaim and an Oscar nomination for Denzel Washington.
• Murphy later pursued dramatic acting roles, receiving an Oscar nomination for his performance in 'Dreamgirls.'