Eddie Murphy is making a comeback as the witty police Detective Axel Foley in the upcoming “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F,” the fourth movie in the franchise. Set to premiere on Netflix on July 3, Murphy is joined on screen by his daughter, Bria, who plays a police officer arresting Foley in a cameo appearance. Sharing a fun fact, Murphy mentioned that his son-in-law was the one who tased him on set, just after getting married, which made the experience surreal for him.
Having not portrayed Axel Foley since “Beverly Hills Cop III” 30 years ago, Murphy shared that returning to the role felt like a reminder of his age. Despite being synonymous with the character, he expressed that he is now 63 years old, contrasting his 21-year-old self when he first took on the role.
Known for its blend of action and comedy, the “Beverly Hills Cop” franchise has been a fan favorite. However, Murphy admitted that he is no longer keen on performing stunts and action sequences. He jokingly mentioned an incident on set where he refused to run down a flight of stairs with more urgency, emphasizing his preference for avoiding action scenes.
In the upcoming movie, familiar faces from the series like John Ashton, Judge Reinhold, Paul Reiser, and Bronson Pinchot make a return, alongside new stars like Kevin Bacon and Joseph Gordon-Levitt. The chemistry between Murphy, Ashton, and Reinhold remains strong, with the trio reuniting for another exciting adventure in the latest installment. Reinhold shared a heartwarming anecdote about Murphy slipping into character during a scene, making them feel like they were reliving a childhood memory.
Reflecting on his iconic role as Axel Foley, Murphy expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play a character that resonates with audiences worldwide. Despite his fame, he mentioned that his younger children are indifferent to his celebrity status, highlighting the down-to-earth nature of his family life.
Looking ahead, Murphy hinted at the possibility of reprising his role as Axel Foley in the future, considering the positive reception of the upcoming movie. With a passion for creativity and a desire to entertain audiences, Murphy remains dedicated to his craft, debunking his previous notion of retiring from acting at 50.
As fans eagerly anticipate the return of Axel Foley, Murphy’s portrayal of the beloved character continues to captivate audiences with his humor and relatable persona. With a stellar cast and a promising storyline, “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” promises to deliver a nostalgic yet fresh take on the classic franchise, ensuring an enjoyable viewing experience for fans old and new alike.