Film fans sometimes reference the “Norbit” theory, and Eddie Murphy is the reason why. In 2006, he delivered a standout performance in 'Dreamgirls,' with many predicting an Oscar win that would cement his legacy. Murphy earned the nomination, but before the voting had even wrapped, Paramount dropped 'Norbit' in February 2007, a month notorious for studios unloading problem projects. The crude, broadly panned comedy quickly became one of the most reviled movies of the year, maybe even the decade. For many, it undercut Murphy’s awards momentum and joined the shortlist of his career’s lowest points.
When the 2007 Oscars rolled around, Eddie Murphy lost Best Supporting Actor to Alan Arkin for 'Little Miss Sunshine.' Some believed 'Norbit' was so toxic it torpedoed Murphy’s chances. Others pointed to his reputation for being difficult behind the scenes. After all, while your peers nominate you, the entire Academy votes on the winner.
Still, despite the backlash and the damage it may have done to his awards hopes, Murphy has continued to defend 'Norbit' as a good movie.
Speaking on "Norbit," Murphy said:
I wrote "Norbit" with my brother, Charlie, and we think "Norbit" is funny. Here’s the thing with "Norbit" — it came out and they gave me Razzie Awards for worst actress, worst actor and worst actor of the decade. And I was like, "Come on now, s--- ain’t that bad."
Murphy’s defense doesn’t quite match the record. He swept the Razzies that year, winning Worst Actor, Worst Supporting Actor, and Worst Supporting Actress. Even so, he’s unapologetic, saying, “To this day, I like Norbit. There’s stuff in Norbit that makes me laugh.”
So there you have it. You might hate 'Norbit.' It might have played a part in sinking his Oscar chances. But Murphy? He’s still standing by it.
(h/t The Hollywood Reporter)
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