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The world of comedy often resembles a close-knit community, where friendships can quickly form and fracture. A notable example of this dynamic is the relationship between comedians Eddie Murphy and David Spade. Their bond suffered a significant blow due to a joke made during a Saturday Night Live segment, resulting in a grudge that lasted 25 years.
In a recent episode of the Fly on the Wall podcast, hosted by Spade and comedian Dana Carvey, Spade discussed the lengthy process of reconciling with Murphy. The incident occurred during Spade’s segment Spade in America, where he joked about Murphy’s 1995 film Vampire in Brooklyn, which had underperformed at the box office.
The evidence
Spade recounted the drastic shift in their relationship, stating, “It was strange transitioning from being a massive fan of Eddie Murphy to suddenly feeling his disdain for me overnight.” This change stemmed from a joke Spade made on air: “Look, children, it’s a falling star. Make a wish!” Murphy viewed this comment as an attack on his career.
Spade reflected on his naivety, saying, “I was new to the show and eager to impress, but I didn’t anticipate the fallout from that particular joke.” Following the broadcast, Murphy contacted Spade, leading to a pivotal phone conversation. Spade recalled, “He was understandably upset, and I didn’t really defend myself; I felt guilty for making fun of my hero.”
The reconstruction
The repercussions of Spade’s joke profoundly affected Murphy. In his Netflix documentary Being Eddie, he shared his emotions regarding the incident. Murphy noted he was not merely angry with Spade but rather with the Saturday Night Live network for permitting such a jab to air. He expressed, “I wasn’t thinking, ‘Screw David Spade.’ I was more like, ‘How could SNL do this to me?'” This reaction underscored his disappointment with a platform that had once propelled him to stardom.
Murphy’s absence from SNL for many years is linked to this incident. His lingering hurt feelings led him to distance himself from the show that had been instrumental in his career. However, over time, both comedians found themselves on a path toward reconciliation.
Key players
Last year, Spade and Murphy reconnected at the SNL 50th anniversary celebration, marking a significant moment in their careers. Spade noted, “I had seen Eddie a couple of times before, but at the 50th, it felt different. We chatted, and I could sense that all was forgiven.” This gathering allowed them to reflect on their past and celebrate their mutual respect for one another’s contributions to comedy.
During the event, Murphy addressed the long-standing tension humorously. When asked about their history, he simply remarked, “Yeah, we’re all good,” indicating that their relationship had finally mended.
The implications
Spade emphasized how time has been essential in repairing their bond. “In the end, I genuinely admire Eddie, and it’s heartening to see that he seems to feel the same way,” he said. Both comedians recognize that the entertainment industry is fraught with challenges and that misunderstandings can lead to unexpected rifts.
The reconciliation between Murphy and Spade serves as a testament that forgiveness is attainable, even after years of silence. Their story illustrates how a simple joke can lead to significant consequences but also demonstrates how time and understanding can bridge the gap between former friends.