Charlie Murphy to Marlon Wayans: Which Celebs Have Successfully Stepped Out of Their Siblings’ Shadow?

Charlie Murphy worked in the shadow of his famous younger brother Eddie for years. It’s understandable — after all, the younger Murphy was the biggest box-office draw of the 1980s and one of the most recognizable actors in the world. Charlie worked as a writer and had some bit roles in a few of Eddie’s movies, but didn’t land anything substantial until he was cast as Gusto in Chris Rock’s 1993 comedy, CB4. The film fared poorly at the box office and Charlie toiled in obscurity for the remainder of the 1990s.

But after teaming up with Dave Chapelle and becoming a recurring performer on the hit “Chapelle’s Show” in 2003, Charlie Murphy’s star began to rise. His “True Hollywood Stories” became a staple of the show — with Murphy recounting his experiences hanging out with eccentric celebrities like Rick James and Prince. Since the show ended, Murphy has carved his own niche. He hosted “We’ve Got to Do Better” on BET, has toured successfully as a stand-up act, starred in Nike’s viral marketing campaign as Leroy Smith, and is set to star in Family Wedding alongside comedian Carlos Mencia.

It took Murphy 20 years to escape his brother’s shadow, but his experience isn’t unique. Marlon Wayans was initially only known as the youngest of the über-talented Wayans family. But, with starring roles in films like G.I. Joe, Marlon has arguably carved out the most successful film career — outside of working with his brothers. Once, Janet Jackson was just Michael’s cute little sister, but by the late ‘80s, she had become an international superstar. Occasionally, a sibling can be eclipsed. In the late ‘90s, Venus Williams was the new face of tennis. Then her little sister, Serena, started making a little noise. Now, Venus’ celebrity takes a slight backseat to Serena…and her (ahem) backseat.
–todd williams