After 30 years in the entertainment industry, one would assume that actor-comedian Eddie Murphy’s best years were behind him. Not so fast. As evidenced by his latest turn as Donkey in the satisfying conclusion to the Shrek franchise, Murphy still has plenty left in the tank. The film, Shrek’s Forever After, hits theaters nationwide on May 21, and finds Murphy in a familiar place as a comedic maestro. When rolling out caught up with Murphy at the Beverly Hills Four Seasons Hotel, the actor reflected on life, love and his time spent working on what has now become a global phenomenon.
Why do you think the Shrek franchise has been so successful?
I think that it’s well written and well made. It’s as simple as that. When you have those things in place, you increase your chances of a film becoming a hit.
How did you tap into your character, Donkey? Did you have to warm up to it, or is it just inside of you?
I just do it. There is no science to what I do … I sometimes wish that there was. But I’ve always been the type of person that can turn it on when the director says action. That’s with any of my roles. When I hear action, I become that character, and when I hear cut, I’m back to being me. It’s as simple as that.
Other than acting, what makes you happy?
I just love life. I love spending time with family and friends, and just enjoying them. I’m passionate about life; I’m passionate about love, and passionate about the people that are along for the ride with me.
–dewayne rogers
