Eddie Murphy reflected on his bold 1988 Oscars speech where he criticized the Academy for failing to recognize Black actors, during a recent interview promoting his Netflix documentary 'Being Eddie.' The comedian shared that Robin Williams warned him against the controversial bit backstage, but Murphy aimed to blend humor with a pointed message on diversity. At the time, only three Black performers had won acting Oscars in the ceremony's history.
Background on the 1988 Speech
In 1988, while presenting the best picture award to Bernardo Bertolucci's 'The Last Emperor' at the Oscars, Eddie Murphy used his platform to address the lack of recognition for Black actors. He told the audience, 'I’m not going because they haven’t recognized Black people in motion pictures,' and added, 'Black people will not ride the caboose of society, and we will not bring up the rear anymore. And I want you to recognize us.' This came at a time when only Hattie McDaniel, Sidney Poitier, and Louis Gossett Jr. had won acting Oscars among Black performers in the Academy's 60-year history. Denzel Washington would win two years later for 'Glory.'
Interview Insights
Promoting 'Being Eddie,' premiering on Netflix November 12, Murphy spoke to Entertainment Weekly about the moment. He recalled backstage with Robin Williams, saying, 'I was like, “I’m gonna say this.” And he goes to me, like, “But why go there?”' Murphy intended the speech to be funny yet edgy, noting he 'wasn’t thinking of the ramifications' and was surprised by the minimal press coverage the next day. Despite the frontrunner status for best supporting actor in 2007's 'Dreamgirls'—where he won Golden Globe and SAG Awards—Murphy lost to Alan Arkin in 'Little Miss Sunshine.' Some speculated the release of 'Norbit' influenced voters, but Murphy defended the film, stating in an earlier interview, 'I love “Norbit,”' and dismissing Razzie wins.
Lasting Impact
Murphy's speech highlighted ongoing diversity issues in awards, predating later Academy reforms. He has yet to win an Oscar, underscoring his point about recognition timelines.