Charlie Murphy

Charlie Murphy was a multi‑talented American entertainer renowned for his work as a writer, actor, and stand‑up comedian, whose career spanned more than three decades. Born on July 29, 1959 in Brooklyn, New York, he grew up in a vibrant family that included his younger brother Eddie, who would become a Hollywood icon, and his sister Jamelle, both of whom influenced his early forays into comedy. Murphy first gained public attention as a writer for Eddie Murphy’s Saturday Night Live sketches in the early 1980s, where his sharp humor and quick wit helped shape the show’s legendary comedic tone. He later transitioned to on‑screen performances, most famously co‑hosting the “Chappelle’s Show” sketch “Charlie’s Angels”, a parody that cemented his status as a cultural punch‑line and introduced his distinctive, laid‑back delivery to a new generation. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Murphy appeared in a variety of television series and films, including “The Boondocks,” “The Wire,” and “White Chicks,” showcasing his versatility as both a supporting actor and a comedic lead. Beyond the screen, he pursued a successful stand‑up career, touring clubs across the United States and delivering routines that blended personal anecdotes, observational humor, and an unapologetic edge. Murphy’s contributions extended to voice work, where his deep, resonant tone brought characters to life in animated projects, further diversifying his artistic portfolio. Though his life was cut short by leukemia on April 12, 2017, his legacy endures through the countless sketches, performances, and mentorship he offered to emerging comedians, making him a pivotal figure in modern American comedy whose influence continues to resonate within the entertainment industry.