Fans of the Star Trek franchise adore Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home for its fascinating fusion of humor, heart, and marine-based weirdness. The movie featured time travel, a quest to save the whales, and that now-famous punk rocker– and it had a role written for Eddie Murphy, who came close to playing an important part in it.
Star Trek served as the inspiration for this 1986 American science fiction movie directed by Leonard Nimoy. Even though the science fiction television series only lasted three seasons, it managed to establish itself as one of the most well-known entertainment franchises ever.
The 62-year-old actor-comedian was initially excited to be a part of Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home, but he later decided to drop it after making a demand that was not granted.
Speaking on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Murphy explained why he declined the 1986 Star Trek film.
What Caused Eddie Murphy to Leave This Star Trek Film?
Eddie Murphy, known for his astounding versatility as an actor and comedian, has always had a passion for science fiction. After making his acting debut in 1982 (48 Hrs.), he was cast as Axel Foley in the Beverly Hills Cop series.
His breakthrough performance in the movie was just the beginning for the legendary performer, who went on to star in classic movies like The Nutty Professor, Coming to America, Boomerang, Trading Places, and Coming to America.
The original Star Trek series ended in 1969, but since then, many films have been made that were based on it. And some Star Trek fans might be surprised to learn that Murphy almost made an appearance in one of them.
The actor spoke about many different subjects during one of his appearances on Jimmy Kimmel Live.
Star Trek was one of the more unexpected topics the pair discussed, and Kimmel grilled Murphy about his prior intentions to appear in one of the sci-fi franchises’ earlier motion pictures. And the latter explained why he hasn’t participated in the project:
“Yeah, it was the one where they go to San Francisco, the one where they meet with the whale. I was going to be the one that [the crew of the Enterprise] met when they got to San Francisco. But I was like, ‘No, I want to beam up and be on the ship,’ so I didn’t do it… They had me, like, talking jive to Spock.”
Eddie Murphy Will Play Inspector Clouseau In Pink Panther Reboot?
Eddie Murphy may not have participated in Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home, but his fans have had a ton of other opportunities to enjoy seeing him in films and television shows ever since.
More recently, the actor is said to have been considered for the lead role in a long-delayed reboot of The Pink Panther.
The latest THR update revealed that discussions with Murphy are currently taking place. The Beverly Hills Cop star would play Inspector Clouseau if the casting was successful. For the project, no additional cast members have yet been announced.
Having said that, the movie is still in development. The screenplay is being written by Chris Bremner and the release date hasn’t yet been set for the reboot of The Pink Panther.
Also, Murphy’s most recent movie, You People, has recently gained attention from audiences all over the world. Kenya Barris’ film was released on January 20, 2023, and is currently streaming on Netflix.
Meanwhile, watch Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home, which is streaming on Paramount Plus.
Source- Jimmy Kimmel live
