Eddie Murphy joins legendary comedian Richard Pryor bio

PanARMENIAN.Net - Eddie Murphy is in talks to join the cast of Lee Daniels’ untitled Richard Pryor biopic, sources confirm, according to Variety.

He will play the late comedian’s father, LeRoy “Buck Carter” Pryor, a boxer and WWII veteran, in the Weinstein Co. drama.

Mike Epps is attached to star as the legendary comedian.

“Harvey (Weinstein) would like it to be released for the Oscars. Because, you know, Harvey is good at that sh-t,” said Pryor’s wife and producer of the film, Jennifer, in a recent podcast.

Daniels teased the Murphy casting Thursday night on Instagram.

Murphy, who recently appeared in the “SNL” 40th anniversary special, grew up idolizing and impersonating Pryor as a comedian in the ’70s.

“Richard’s the one that made me want to do comedy,” he has previously said. “When I was little I used to sneak into my basement and put his albums on.”

Oprah Winfrey and Kate Hudson are rumored for supporting roles in the Richard Pryor project.

Daniels, who last re-teamed with the Weinstein Co. and Oprah on “The Butler,” is riding the success of his hit TV drama “Empire,” which Fox just renewed for a second season.

Murphy can be seen next in the culinary drama “Cook.”

“Entertainment Tonight” first reported the news of his casting.