Eddie Murphy Revisits David Spade’s Infamous Diss That Sparked ‘SNL’ Feud in ‘Being Eddie’: “F–k Y’all, That’s What Y’all Think of Me?”

The David Spade Diss That Ignited a Decades-Long ‘SNL’ Feud

In the world of comedy, few moments have stirred as much controversy as the infamous diss David Spade made about Eddie Murphy during his tenure on Saturday Night Live (SNL). This moment, which took place in 1995, became a pivotal point in Murphy’s relationship with the show and sparked a feud that lasted for decades. The recently released Netflix documentary Being Eddie offers a candid look at this incident and Murphy’s reflections on it years later.

David Spade was known for his sharp wit and biting humor, especially during his “Hollywood Minute” segment on SNL, where he frequently roasted celebrities. When Murphy’s 1995 film Vampires in Brooklyn failed to impress critics and underperformed at the box office, Spade seized the opportunity to make a cutting joke. He quipped, “Look children, it’s a falling star. Make a wish,” referring to Murphy’s perceived decline in popularity.

The audience’s reaction was immediate and intense, with audible boos and hisses filling the studio. This response underscored the shock and discomfort many felt at the harshness of the joke, especially given Murphy’s legendary status on the show. Murphy himself was deeply hurt by the comment, viewing it as a betrayal from the very institution that had launched his career.

Eddie Murphy’s Emotional Response and Lingering Resentment

In Being Eddie, Murphy opens up about how the joke affected him personally. He describes feeling wounded not just by Spade’s words but by the fact that the joke had passed through the show’s approval process and was aired on national television. Murphy expressed frustration that such a joke would never be allowed if it targeted a current cast member, highlighting what he saw as a double standard.

“I was hurt, my feelings was hurt,” Murphy admits in the documentary. “It’s like your alma mater taking a shot at you—at my career, not how funny I was. Called me a ‘falling star.’ If there was a joke like that right now, and it was about some other SNL cast member, and it was about how messed up their career was, it would get shot down.”

Murphy’s reaction wasn’t just anger directed at Spade personally but at SNL as a whole. “Fuck SNL. Fuck y’all, how y’all gonna do this shit? That’s what y’all think of me? You dirty mother—” he said, explaining why he stayed away from the show for many years. This deep-seated resentment underscored a painful chapter in Murphy’s career and relationship with the comedy institution.

The Path to Reconciliation and Murphy’s Return to SNL

Despite the bitterness, Murphy’s feelings toward Spade were complex. According to Spade’s 2015 memoir, Murphy called him two days after the joke aired, expressing his anger in no uncertain terms. Spade recounted the call as a difficult moment, revealing the emotional toll the diss had on both comedians.

However, time softened the tension. The two eventually reconciled in 2011 after a chance encounter, allowing them to move past the feud. Murphy’s decision to return to SNL as a host in 2019 marked a significant turning point. In the documentary, he explains this choice as a way to reconnect with his roots and put old grievances behind him.

“I was like, ‘You know what? Fuck this. SNL is part of my history. I need to reconnect with that show, because that’s where I come from,’” Murphy said. “That little friction that I had with SNL was 35 years ago. I don’t have no smoke with no David Spade. I don’t have any heat, or any of that, with nobody. I was like, ‘Hey let me go to and smooth that all out.’ And I did.”

Why This Feud Still Resonates Today

The story of Eddie Murphy and David Spade’s feud is more than just a celebrity spat; it’s a reflection of the challenges comedians face in balancing humor with respect, especially within institutions like SNL that have launched countless careers. Murphy’s journey from hurt and resentment to forgiveness highlights the complexities of fame, loyalty, and personal growth.

Moreover, this episode serves as a reminder of the power of words and the impact they can have, even years later. Murphy’s willingness to revisit the incident publicly in Being Eddie offers fans a rare glimpse into the emotional realities behind the laughter and the spotlight.

What ‘Being Eddie’ Reveals About Eddie Murphy’s Legacy

Being Eddie is more than a documentary; it’s a celebration of Eddie Murphy’s enduring influence on comedy and entertainment. By addressing moments like the Spade diss, the film paints a fuller picture of Murphy—not just as a superstar but as a human being who has faced setbacks, conflicts, and ultimately, reconciliation.

The documentary also emphasizes Murphy’s generosity and loyalty, highlighting how he paid for funerals of close friends like Rick James, underscoring his deep connections beyond the stage and screen. This nuanced portrayal enriches our understanding of Murphy’s legacy and the personal experiences that have shaped his career.

Conclusion

Eddie Murphy’s candid reflections on David Spade’s infamous diss and the resulting ‘SNL’ feud, as showcased in the Netflix documentary Being Eddie, reveal a story of pain, pride, and ultimately, forgiveness. This episode not only sheds light on a pivotal moment in comedy history but also illustrates the resilience and humanity behind one of the industry’s greatest icons. If you’re a fan of Eddie Murphy or intrigued by the behind-the-scenes drama of comedy legends, Being Eddie is a must-watch.

Don’t miss out on this insightful documentary—stream Being Eddie on Netflix today and experience the full story for yourself!