Even as a young boy, Eddie Murphy knew how to make people laugh. He first took the stage at the age of 15, emceeing an amateur talent show. At 19, he was discovered by the producers of Saturday Night Live and soon emerged as the sketch comedy program's biggest and most controversial star. After Murphy turned to making movies, he quickly established himself as one of the hottest stars in Hollywood. Murphy has since expanded his range by starring in more family-friendly films and acting in more dramatic roles. This fully updated biography chronicles Murphy's formative years, details the highs and lows of his career, and explores how this talented, wise-cracking actor has made audiences laugh from the small screen to movie hits.