By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
Eddie Murphy, American actor and comedian says one of the most valuable lessons he received early in his career came from none other than the legendary James Brown.
Speaking in the 2025 Apple TV+ documentary Number One on the Call Sheet, Murphy recalled Brown encouraging him to stop using profanity in his comedy routines if he wanted a long career in entertainment.
“James Brown told me… ‘You want to be in this business a long time? You can stop that cursing,’” Murphy said.
Murphy explained that Brown was among the few veteran entertainers who took time to mentor younger performers as his career was taking off.
The advice didn’t end there.
Murphy also shared one of Brown’s more unusual financial tips. According to Murphy, Brown asked if he had a million dollars and then suggested he bury the money in the woods to keep it safe.
Murphy laughed as he recalled questioning the idea.
“I said, ‘But can’t the government take your land?’ He said, ‘But they won’t know where the money is.’”
Murphy said the exchange perfectly captured the kind of unconventional wisdom Brown often shared.
Today, Murphy remains one of Hollywood’s most successful comedians and actors, while Brown’s influence continues to be remembered not only for his groundbreaking music but also for the colorful life lessons he passed along to others.