Podcast, the 63-year-old actor and comedian reflected on the “cheap shots” that he felt he had taken over the years, especially from the media during the early years of his career.

In a candid discussion on his recent podcast, Eddie Murphy, the iconic actor and comedian, revisited some of the more painful moments from his career, including a particular incident involving David Spade. The 63-year-old Murphy expressed his discontent with a 1995 “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) sketch where Spade, now 59, made a derogatory joke about him.

Murphy, who rose to fame with his groundbreaking work on SNL from 1980 to 1984, recalled the relentless media scrutiny he faced during the early years of his career. He described this period as rife with “cheap shots” and “racist stuff,” reflecting the broader societal attitudes of the 1980s.

The joke in question was part of Spade’s “Hollywood Minute” segment on a December 1995 episode of SNL. Spade, known for his sharp wit and biting humor, took a jab at Murphy’s career, which Murphy now characterizes as a racially charged insult.

“I was really taken aback,” Murphy told listeners. “Here’s a guy from the show that I was a part of, and I helped make it what it was, taking a cheap shot at me. It was not just an attack on my career but something more personal. It felt racist, and it stung.”

Murphy’s comments reveal a deeper frustration with how he was portrayed and treated during that era. The actor, who has been a trailblazer in comedy and film, has often spoken out about the challenges he faced as a Black entertainer in a predominantly white industry.

The 1995 SNL incident underscores a broader conversation about the intersection of race, media, and comedy. In the 1980s and 1990s, humor often pushed boundaries in ways that are viewed very differently today. Murphy’s reflection on this joke highlights how the context of comedy and criticism has evolved, and how past comments are revisited through the lens of contemporary standards.

Spade, known for his quick humor and often controversial remarks, has not publicly responded to Murphy’s recent comments. However, the incident remains a touchstone in discussions about the impact of comedy and media representation.

Murphy’s remarks are a reminder of the long-lasting effects of public criticism and the complex dynamics between comedians, media, and audiences. As he continues to reflect on his career, Murphy’s comments offer valuable insights into the evolving nature of comedy and the importance of addressing past injustices in the entertainment industry.