Eddie Murphy Pink Panther Reboot Announced on Today Show
Eddie Murphy has officially stepped into the pink-tinted shoes of Inspector Jacques Clouseau. During an interview with Al Roker on NBC’s Today show, Murphy confirmed he will headline a reboot of The Pink Panther—reviving one of the most iconic slapstick detective roles in cinema history.
“Yeah, I’m the new Clouseau,” Murphy said with a grin. The 64-year-old actor revealed the role is one of several high-profile projects he has in motion, including Shrek 5 and a biopic on funk legend George Clinton.
A Legacy Role with a New Twist
Originally brought to life by Peter Sellers in the 1963 classic The Pink Panther, Inspector Clouseau became a beloved comedic figure thanks to Sellers’ impeccable timing and bumbling charm. The character, known for his exaggerated French accent and catastrophic detective work, was later portrayed by Steve Martin in the mid-2000s reboot.
When asked if his Clouseau would keep the traditional French persona, Murphy played coy. “Maybe,” he said. “Well, he has to be French, but he could also be Haitian. I will tell you, he’s Black. He’s Black, for sure.”
Murphy Balances Humor and Age
Murphy, known for Beverly Hills Cop, Coming to America, and Shrek, reflected on how his roles have shifted with time. “Usually I’m the young maverick guy. And now I’m the old voice of reason,” he said, laughing about the physical toll action scenes take at his age: “If you whip somebody’s ass when you’re our age, you kind of whip your own ass, too.”
A New Chapter for the Classic Franchise
The original Pink Panther films followed Clouseau’s clumsy but surprisingly effective attempts to solve crimes, often involving a valuable diamond named the Pink Panther. Known for its animated intros and Henry Mancini’s legendary theme song, the franchise has become a cornerstone of comedic cinema.
Murphy’s take will bring new energy—and representation—to the role. While plot details and a release date have not yet been announced, the return of the Pink Panther is official.
