On Wednesday, news broke that actor and comedian Charlie Murphy had passed away after a battle with leukemia. He was 57.
Murphy made his mark in comedy through stand up, numerous film projects, and a recurring role on Chappelle’s Show. Fans, friends, and celebrities flooded social media with tributes and messages of love for the late comic.
One thing fans and critics often talked about was Murphy’s rise to fame and his brother, actor Eddie Murphy. The two had a loving relationship, with Eddie often doing impressions of his older brother.
In a 2009 interview with ESSENCE, Charlie opened up about their relationship and criticism that he was living in Eddie’s shadow.
“I’ve never felt like I was living in anyone’s shadow. My life was what it was. I was always proud of my brother. He helped me tremendously, but we’re family so we were never in his shadow.”
Murphy’s family has yet to issue a statement. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.