Eddie Murphy Joins New Pink Panther Reboot

Legendary actor Eddie Murphy is stepping back in front of the camera for another entertaining role. The comedian recently confirmed he will appear in an upcoming Pink Panther film in a key part.

"I'm set to play Inspector Clouseau in the next Pink Panther," Murphy mentioned during a July 28 appearance on the Today show. "Yes, I'm the new Clouseau."

Co-anchor Al Roker asked whether Murphy would portray the famous character in the classic French manner. Murphy replied, "Possibly. He has to be French, but he could have Haitian roots. Let me clarify – he's Black. Definitely Black."

In May 2023, reports indicated Murphy was in discussions to lead a Pink Panther reboot directed by Jeff Fowler of Sonic the Hedgehog fame. However, that version seems to have faced development challenges. Specifics about the newer project Murphy referenced are still unknown, and details will emerge in time.

The original Pink Panther debuted in 1963. Murphy's role – the bumbling but essential Inspector Clouseau – was originated by Peter Sellers, who later reprised it in five sequels. After Sellers' death in 1980 at age 54, Steve Martin assumed the part for two 2000s follow-ups. A reboot, The Pink Panther, released in 2006, with a sequel, The Pink Panther 2, arriving three years later.

Murphy is currently involved in Shrek 5, scheduled for a Christmas release next year. He also stars in the action comedy The Pickup, premiering on Prime Video August 6.