Eddie Murphy's Characters in "Coming to America": A Closer Look

"Coming to America" is a beloved comedy film released in 1988, starring Eddie Murphy in multiple roles. In the movie, Murphy showcases his exceptional talent by portraying various characters, each with its unique traits and quirks. One question that often arises is, "Who did Eddie Murphy play in Coming to America?" In this article, we will delve into the different characters Murphy portrayed in the film and explore the comedic brilliance he brought to each role.

1. Overview of "Coming to America":

Before we delve into Eddie Murphy's characters, let's provide a brief overview of "Coming to America." Directed by John Landis, the film tells the story of Prince Akeem, the heir to the throne of the fictional African nation of Zamunda. Akeem travels to New York City to find true love and escape the arranged marriage set up by his parents.

Coming to America

2. Prince Akeem Joffer:

Eddie Murphy's primary character in "Coming to America" is Prince Akeem Joffer. Akeem is a charming and charismatic prince who desires a life beyond his royal duties. He embarks on a journey to America, disguised as a commoner, to seek true love and find a woman who will love him for who he is, rather than his royal title.

3. Clarence, the Barber Shop Owner:

One of the most memorable characters Eddie Murphy portrays in the film is Clarence, the owner of the barber shop. Clarence is an elderly man with a quick wit and a knack for entertaining his customers with humorous anecdotes. Murphy's portrayal of Clarence is both hilarious and endearing, showcasing his ability to transform into characters of different ages and backgrounds.

Clarence, the Barber Shop Owner

4. Randy Watson, the Soul Singer:

In a comedic twist, Eddie Murphy also takes on the role of Randy Watson, a soul singer who performs at a local bar. Watson is known for his exaggerated stage presence, extravagant outfits, and over-the-top vocal performances. Murphy's portrayal of this character adds a layer of musicality and flamboyance to the film, resulting in uproarious laughter from the audience.

5. Saul, the Jewish Customer:

Another character brought to life by Eddie Murphy is Saul, a Jewish customer at the barber shop. Saul provides a humorous contrast to the other characters, as he navigates the unfamiliar surroundings of the African-American barbershop. Murphy's portrayal of Saul highlights his versatility as an actor, effortlessly adopting different accents and mannerisms to deliver comedic gold.

6. Reverend Brown:

Reverend Brown is yet another memorable character played by Eddie Murphy in "Coming to America." As a lively and energetic preacher, Reverend Brown steals the scene during a wedding ceremony with his unconventional and entertaining style. Murphy's comedic timing and ability to bring vibrant characters to life shine through in this hilarious portrayal.

7. Additional Characters:

Aside from the aforementioned characters, Eddie Murphy takes on several minor roles throughout the film, adding depth and humor to the narrative. These characters include a singer in the royal palace, an extra in a commercial, and a member of the barbershop quartet. Each portrayal demonstrates Murphy's comedic prowess and his ability to bring even the smallest roles to life.

In "Coming to America," Eddie Murphy showcases his incredible talent by portraying a range of diverse and memorable characters. From the charming Prince Akeem to the hilarious barbershop owner Clarence and the flamboyant soul singer Randy Watson, Murphy's performances captivate the audience and leave a lasting impression. His ability to transform into multiple characters demonstrates his versatility as an actor and solidifies his status as a comedic genius. "Coming to America" remains a classic comedy, largely due to Murphy's exceptional portrayals that continue to entertain audiences to this day.