Hollywood legend Eddie Murphy has opened up with remarkable candour about his profound journey into fatherhood, declaring his ten children are now the absolute 'centre of his everything'. The 64-year-old comedian and actor makes these heartfelt revelations in his new Netflix documentary, Being Eddie, marking a significant shift from his former self-centred lifestyle.
From Selfishness to Selflessness
Murphy confessed that before embracing parenthood, his world revolved entirely around himself. 'I used to stay up for two days sometimes before going to bed,' he admitted, illustrating his previously chaotic routine. The star credited his second wife, Paige Butcher, with helping him adopt a more structured life, quipping that they now typically 'watch two episodes of Seinfeld and go to bed'. He summarised his transformation succinctly: 'Before kids it's just about you, once you have kids it's all about them.'
Overcoming Past Conflicts with Mel B
The documentary also touches upon one of the most challenging chapters of Murphy's life: the vicious paternity battle with his ex-partner, Spice Girl Melanie Brown (Mel B). The dispute concerned their child, Angel, now 18, who is living as a trans man. Murphy initially denied paternity, leading to years of estrangement, a decision he has since deeply regretted.
Mel B, 50, revealed that their once-contentious relationship has now 'flourished' into a successful co-parenting dynamic. '[Angel and Eddie] spend time together, they go on holiday together. He has ten kids he's a proper father,' she told US Weekly. She attributed the earlier difficulties partly to her 'abusive' marriage to ex-husband Stephen Belafonte, allegations which he denies.
Reflecting on their past, Mel B has described Murphy as 'the love of my life', stating their bond was so intense they had each other's autographs tattooed on their thighs. She confirmed that their son Angel is thriving, is fluent in Japanese, and recently visited Japan with his girlfriend.
Meet Eddie Murphy's Large Family
Eddie Murphy's role as a father extends across his large and blended family. He is father to:
- Eric, 35, with ex Paulette McNeely
- Bria, 35, Myles, 32, Shayne, 30, Zola, 25, and Bella, 23, with ex-wife Nicole Murphy
- Christian, 34, with ex Tamara Hood
- Angel, 18, with ex Mel B
- Izzy, nine, and Max, six, with his current wife Paige Butcher
Through the documentary, Murphy presents a portrait of a man who has found his ultimate purpose and fulfilment not in fame or comedy, but in the complex and rewarding world of fatherhood.
