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Eddie Murphy Joins Pink Panther Reboot

by Christopher Jan 16,2026

Legendary actor Eddie Murphy is stepping back into the spotlight with an exciting new role. The comedy icon recently announced he'll take on a pivotal character in the upcoming Pink Panther film adaptation.

Eddie Murphy Confirms His Iconic Role

"I'm going to be Inspector Clouseau in the next Pink Panther," Murphy casually revealed during his July 28th appearance on the Today show. "Yeah, I'm the new Clouseau."

When co-anchor Al Roker asked if he'd maintain the character's classic French accent, Murphy hinted at a fresh interpretation: "Maybe. He has to be French, but he could also be Haitian. I'll tell you this - he's definitely Black."

A Long-Developing Project

Reports first surfaced in May 2023 about Murphy potentially starring in a Pink Panther reboot directed by Jeff Fowler (Sonic the Hedgehog). While that iteration faced development challenges, Murphy's recent confirmation suggests the project has evolved. Specific details remain under wraps for now.

The Legacy of Inspector Clouseau

The original 1963 Pink Panther film introduced audiences to Peter Sellers' legendary portrayal of the bumbling Inspector Clouseau. Sellers reprised the character across five sequels until his passing in 1980. Steve Martin later revived the role for 2006's The Pink Panther and its 2009 sequel.

Beyond his Pink Panther commitment, Murphy continues his busy schedule. He's currently working on Shrek 5 (set for Christmas 2025) and stars in the action comedy The Pickup, premiering August 6 on Prime Video.