Eddie Murphy Is Bringing Dolemite To Life In A New Star Studded Film (Video)

For 50 years, Rudy Ray Moore was a force in comedy. A native of Fort Smith, Arkansas, Moore learned to command audiences as both a preacher as well as a nightclub dancer. Eventually moving to comedy, Moore would begin a recording career in the late 1950s that lasted until his death in 2008.

Rudy Ray Moore’s career sustained thanks in large part to “Dolemite.” In the comedian’s Los Angeles Times obituary, it was reported that he overheard raunchy stories of a character with that name while working in a Hollywood, California. Moore took that act to the stage, portraying a character that spoke freely of sex, prostitution, and lots of non-mainstream subject matters.

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Through this act, Moore eventually took “Dolemite” to film. In 1975 he released an eponymous film. Moore reprised the role in sequels and other films, including the Dr. Dre-and-Fab 5 Freddy-directed Murder Was The Case. As a Black comedian operating outside of the mainstream or traditional industry, Rudy Ray Moore became a force to be reckoned with in Hollywood. His films, his albums, and his form of expression.

During Moore’s and since his death, he’s had a profound influence on Rap music. Blowfly, Too Short, Ice-T, 2 Live Crew, Snoop Dogg, OutKast, Devin The Dude, and others have emulated his style of raunchy storytelling. Moore appeared on albums by Big Daddy Kane, 2 Live Crew, Snoop, and Busta Rhymes, among others.

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Eddie Murphy plays Rudy Ray Moore and the “Dolemite” persona in the upcoming Dolemite Is My Name film. Based on its just-released trailer, the movie recalls Moore’s challenges to make his first film. The all-star cast features many of the people that Moore paved the way for, including Murphy. Mike Epps, Craig Robinson, Snoop Dogg, Keegan-Michael Key, and Wesley Snipes star. Chris Rock, Luenell, and T.I. are also confirmed actors in the film directed by Hustle & Flow‘s Craig Brewer.

The trailer shows Moore’s pursuits into the spotlight, despite resistance given his age, background, and physique. It also looks to separate Moore from his most memorable character, which was a trojan horse to pursue a dream.

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The role comes during a renaissance for Eddie Murphy. Coming 2 America, a sequel to his beloved film from 30 years ago, is now in production. Meanwhile, reports suggest that Murphy may soon premiere a standup comedy special at Netflix.

Dolemite Is My Name will reach the streaming platform after making its debut at the upcoming Toronto Film Festival.