Eddie Murphy is currently in negotiations to lead a new installment in the beloved Pink Panther film series, according to exclusive sources confirmed by Deadline. The project, in its early development stage, is being helmed by MGM, now under the ownership of Amazon.
Created by the Blake Edwards, the Pink Panther franchise has captivated audiences with its comedic mystery stories centered around the comically inept Inspector Jacques Clouseau. Over the years, this iconic franchise has produced 11 films, alongside various television series and specials.
Although details about the new project’s creative team remain under wraps, it is highly anticipated that Eddie Murphy will don the role of Clouseau. The character was originally portrayed by the talented three-time Academy Award nominee Peter Sellers in the 1960s, and subsequently by Emmy winner Steve Martin in the early 2000s. Murphy, who has long admired the comedic performances of Sellers, is considered an ideal fit for the role, according to a source close to the actor.
Notably, Murphy has been consistently delivering exceptional performances in recent years. He most recently starred alongside Jonah Hill and Julia-Louis Dreyfus in Kenya Barris’ directorial debut, “You People.” This comedy has quickly become one of the most-watched films on Netflix in 2023. Prior to that, Murphy reprised his iconic role as Prince Akeem in Prime Video’s “Coming 2 America,” a film that he also produced. Additionally, he will soon be seen in the holiday comedy “Candy Cane Lane,” alongside Tracee Ellis Ross and an ensemble cast on Prime Video. Fans can also look forward to his return as Axel Foley in Netflix’s “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel Foley,” a new installment in the action-comedy series from the 1980s, where he will share the screen with Joseph Gordon-Levitt.
Earlier this year, Murphy teamed up with Amazon once again for the heist comedy film titled “The Package,” which was acquired by the streaming giant in a lucrative seven-figure deal. With his remarkable talent and proven track record, Murphy continues to solidify his position as one of Hollywood’s most beloved and versatile actors.
Represented by WME, ML Management, and Ziffren Brittenham, Murphy’s involvement in the Pink Panther project has generated immense excitement among fans eagerly awaiting his return to the big screen. As development progresses, audiences around the world can anticipate a revitalized and uproarious Pink Panther adventure with Murphy at the helm.
Stay tuned for further updates on the highly anticipated Pink Panther film as more information becomes available.
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