Eddie Murphy ruled over the Hollywood film industry back in the ’80s and ’90s. He was not only praised for his satirical take on screen but also for the romantic love scenes. Trying to expand his range, Murphy was allegedly even interested in a superhero entry, The Green Hornet.
As per Slash Film, a 1992 Los Angeles Times article quoted the words from an anonymous source,
Ever since ‘Batman’ was released in 1989, Eddie has really wanted to play a super-hero, […] specifically that character. He’s a big fan of the story, and he’s let it be known to Universal that he wants to star in the film.
Don Mancini of the Child’s Play franchise was reportedly attached to write the script. Meanwhile, Tom Craig, an exec of Universal, was excited to push a project starring Murphy in superhero tights forward.
The character who seems to be a perfect rival of Batman was introduced in a radio drama, first presented to the world in the 1930s. While the vigilante was later adapted into a TV Show in 1966, the 90s were the days when the world was ready to welcome him to the big screen, with Murphy donning the superhero suit.
In 1992, Eddie Murphy Chose To Star In These 2 Masterpieces Instead
The movie was planned around the release of Tim Burton’s Batman, starring Michael Keaton, which was released in 1989. Over the next decade, the world was introduced to Dark Man, The Shadow of the 1990s, and Brandon Lee’s The Crow in 1994.
Although it was a great time to pick up the vigilante costume for Murphy, the same LA Times 1992 report stated that Mark Lipsky, who was the executive producer of the actor’s romance entry, said,
We have no interest in The Green Hornet right now
Also suggesting that other projects were already in development, involving Murphy. He was definitely pointing towards Boomerang, which was released that same year, when speculations surfaced about Murphy’s Green Hornet.
Interestingly, Boomerang was not the only outing that had impressed the global box office audience with Murphy’s portrayal; The Distinguished Gentleman, a political satire still appreciated by die-hard Murphy fans, was also notable.
Both of these entries proved to be the best of Murphy as Boomerang challenged the actor to adapt in a romantic environment, and The Distinguished Gentleman brought out the side of politics that the world needed to see, in a satirical manner.
The Green Hornet Through the Ages: All Live-Action TV Shows & Movies
Over the years, the audience has come across many entries of The Green Hornet that received an impressive response. From being a hit on radio shows to the various on-screen adaptations, here’s everything about The Green Hornet adaptations over the years.
The 2011 film starred Seth Rogen, Jay Chou, Cameron Diaz, and other talented actors.
Eddie Murphy Still Has a Chance: The Green Hornet Reboot May be Happening
Back in 2022, a reboot of The Green Hornet was reported by Deadline. This time, the film was supposed to be helmed by Leigh Whannell and was to have the title The Green Hornet and Kato for Universal Pictures. While no updates were heard about the reboot, in case any plans for such a remake are still on the cards, they should definitely consider Murphy for the role.
This would be a big surprise for his fans, as the actor has already been hitting his old franchise in recent years with the release of Prime Video’s Coming 2 America and Netflix’s Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F. We can expect an old version of The Green Hornet of Murphy, who had left his fighting days behind, but as an old mafia boss resurfaces, the situation forces Murphy’s character to wear the mask for one showdown.
Do let us know what you think of the Green Hornet movie starring Eddie Murphy.
The Green Hornet 2011 is available to watch on Apple.
