Eddie Murphy, the iconic comedian and star of Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, is not just a Hollywood legend but also the patriarch of a large and loving blended family. As a father of ten children with five different mothers, Murphy’s family life is as dynamic and heartwarming as his on-screen performances. This article delves into the details of the Eddie Murphy Family, exploring each of his children and his relationships with their mothers, painting a picture of a dedicated father at the center of it all.
Eddie Murphy’s journey into fatherhood began in 1989, and over the years, his family has grown to include six daughters and four sons. His children are Eric, Bria, Christian, Myles Mitchell, Shayne Audra, Zola Ivy, Bella Zahra, Angel Iris, Izzy Oona, and Max Charles. Despite a demanding career in the entertainment industry, Eddie Murphy has consistently emphasized that his children are his top priority. In a 2021 interview on Marc Maron’s WTF podcast, he described them as the “[center of everything],” highlighting his deep love for fatherhood. This commitment to family is a core part of the Eddie Murphy persona, extending beyond his comedic talent and acting prowess.
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Judge Reinhold, Murphy’s Beverly Hills Cop costar, affirmed this family-oriented nature, telling PEOPLE, “He’s crazy about his kids and his family… He’s a family guy at heart. Truly is. He really is.” This sentiment resonates throughout Eddie Murphy’s public statements and actions, showcasing a man who balances Hollywood stardom with the responsibilities and joys of a large family. Let’s take a closer look at each branch of the Eddie Murphy family tree.
Paulette McNeely and Eric Murphy
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Image: A close-up shot of Eddie Murphy and his son Eric Murphy, both smiling warmly at the camera, showcasing their close father-son relationship.
Eddie Murphy’s first child, Eric Murphy, was born on July 10, 1989, to his then-girlfriend Paulette McNeely. While details about Eddie Murphy and Paulette McNeely’s relationship remain private, Eric is their only child together. Now 34 years old, Eric maintains a connection with his father and siblings. Recently, Eric’s relationship with Jasmin Lawrence, daughter of Martin Lawrence, has brought more of Eddie Murphy’s family life into the spotlight, further illustrating the interconnectedness of celebrity families.
Nicole Mitchell: Bria, Myles, Shayne, Zola, and Bella Murphy
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Image: Eddie Murphy and Nicole Mitchell, his former wife, pictured with their five children at “The Haunted Mansion” premiere, highlighting their blended family unit.
Eddie Murphy’s longest relationship and largest family unit is with his ex-wife, Nicole Mitchell. They met in 1988, married in 1993, and together they have five children: Bria, born in November 1989; Myles, born in November 1992; Shayne, born in October 1994; Zola, born in December 1999; and Bella, born in January 2002. Nicole Mitchell Murphy and Eddie were married for 12 years before Nicole filed for divorce in 2005. Despite the divorce, both prioritized their children’s well-being. In a statement at the time, Murphy emphasized, “The welfare of our children is our main concern and their best interest is our first priority.”
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Years after their separation, Nicole Mitchell spoke about their amicable relationship. “Eddie and I are friends,” she told Radar Online in 2012. “He’s my babies’ daddy so we speak to each other and have a great relationship… We can be in the same room and hang out, it’s all good!” This friendly co-parenting was evident when Eddie and Nicole publicly reunited to support their daughter Bria at her movie premiere in 2016, showcasing a united front for their family.
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Image: A wide shot capturing Eddie Murphy surrounded by his children at the “Mr. Church” premiere, illustrating the large and supportive Eddie Murphy family presence at public events.
Tamara Hood and Christian Murphy
Christian Murphy, Eddie Murphy’s son with ex-girlfriend Tamara Hood, was born in November 1990, between the births of Bria and Myles with Nicole Mitchell. Like his relationship with Paulette McNeely, details about Eddie Murphy’s relationship with Tamara Hood are scarce. However, Christian, now 33, is known to be part of the broader Eddie Murphy family, appearing in social media posts alongside his siblings, indicating a connected and blended family dynamic.
Melanie Brown and Angel Iris Murphy Brown
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Image: A photo of Melanie Brown (Mel B) and Eddie Murphy from their past relationship, showing them together, relevant to the discussion of their daughter Angel.
Eddie Murphy’s relationship with Melanie Brown, famously known as Mel B from the Spice Girls, was brief but intense. Their daughter, Angel Iris Murphy Brown, was born in April 2007. Despite initial paternity disputes, a DNA test confirmed Eddie Murphy as Angel’s father in June 2007. Melanie Brown has described their relationship as passionate, telling Larry King, “Our relationship may have been brief but it was intense. We were very much in love and wanted to have a family together.” Despite the initial challenges, sources indicate that Eddie Murphy is now an active and loving father to Angel, who is reported to have a close relationship with him.
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Paige Butcher: Izzy Oona and Max Charles Murphy
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Image: Eddie Murphy and his wife Paige Butcher attending Bria Murphy’s art gallery opening, a family event, showcasing their support within the Eddie Murphy family.
Paige Butcher is Eddie Murphy’s current wife and the mother of his youngest children. They have been together since 2012 and share two children: Izzy Oona Murphy, born in May 2016, and Max Charles Murphy, born in November 2018. Eddie Murphy and Paige Butcher got engaged in 2018 and recently married in a private Caribbean ceremony in July 2024. Paige Butcher is often seen alongside Eddie Murphy at family events and public appearances, and is clearly integrated into the larger Eddie Murphy family.
In a 2024 interview, Eddie Murphy referred to Paige Butcher as his “wife,” solidifying their marital status and public commitment. The couple’s relationship appears to be a strong foundation for the youngest members of the Eddie Murphy family, adding another layer of love and unity to his already expansive family life.
Eddie Murphy: A Father First
Throughout his career and personal life, Eddie Murphy’s dedication to his family shines through. From oldest to youngest, each of his ten children is a testament to his commitment to fatherhood. He has navigated the complexities of a blended family with grace and a clear focus on his children’s well-being. Whether through co-parenting relationships with his exes or building a strong partnership with his current wife, Paige Butcher, Eddie Murphy exemplifies the role of a devoted father. His story resonates not just as a celebrity profile, but as an inspiring example of prioritizing family amidst the demands of a high-profile career. The Eddie Murphy family story is one of love, commitment, and the enduring strength of family bonds.
