Ryan Coogler may be getting Denzel Washington for Black Panther but Eddie Murphy is The Pink Panther. As if Eddie Murphy weren’t already synonymous with iconic franchises, the veteran comic and actor revealed today that he’d soon be taking on the famed role of the Pink Panther.
Speaking to Today‘s Al Roker, Murphy said he had initially “planned on slowing down, and things just happened” with regard to his slate of upcoming projects.
“I’m getting ready to do a [biopic of] Bill Clinton, The Pickup star said. “I’ve already started Shrek 5. And I’m going to be — I’m Inspector Clouseau in the next Pink Panther.”
Related Stories Eddie Murphy shares update on Donkey movie spinoff Eddie Murphy Teases 'Shrek 5' & Shares Update On Donkey Movie Spinoff: "They've Written This Funny Story"
When Roker reacted with surprise, asking if the canonically French character would still be written as such with Murphy occupying the role, the Saturday Night Live alum responded coyly: “Maybe. Well, he has to be French, but he could also be Haitian. I will tell you, he’s Black. He’s Black, for sure.”
Watch on Deadline