Eddie Murphy is set to bring his comedic chops to a legendary role as he steps into the shoes of Inspector Clouseau for a new installment of the Pink Panther franchise. The actor confirmed the news in a recent interview with Al Roker, where he casually dropped the reveal during a conversation about his upcoming slate of projects.

Eddie Murphy Embraces the Role of Clouseau

While discussing his work on the upcoming action comedy “The Pickup” alongside Pete Davidson and Keke Palmer, Murphy shifted gears to share what’s next. “I’ve already started ‘Shrek 5.’ And I’m going to be — I’m Inspector Clouseau in the next ‘Pink Panther,’” he said with a smile. When Roker pressed for confirmation, Murphy doubled down. “Yeah, I’m the new Clouseau,” he said. “He has to be French, but he could also be Haitian. I will tell you, he’s Black. He’s Black, for sure.”

The character of Inspector Clouseau, famously portrayed by Peter Sellers beginning in the original 1963 film, has seen several reincarnations. Steve Martin took on the role in the 2006 reboot “The Pink Panther” and again in the 2009 sequel. Now, Murphy is poised to take on the iconic, bumbling detective, bringing his own brand of physical comedy and timing to a new generation.

A Comedic Legacy and a Fresh Spin

Inspector Clouseau is one of the most iconic characters in The Pink Panther franchise.

This isn’t Murphy’s first brush with the Clouseau character. He’s been linked to the role for years, with fans speculating about what his version might look like. Known for his expressive physical comedy and smart timing, Murphy’s take is expected to honor the character’s roots while pushing the franchise forward. Whether he takes a French or Haitian angle, his Clouseau will undoubtedly stand apart.

Murphy also touched on other dream projects, including a possible remake of the classic 1963 comedy “It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World.” His interest in revisiting iconic films highlights a broader phase in his career—one rooted in homage and reinvention. He’s no longer the wisecracking new kid; he’s stepping into the role of elder statesman with a sharp eye for legacy projects.

Murphy on Aging, Action, and Comedy

In the TODAY interview, Murphy reflected on how his identity as an actor has evolved. “Usually I’m the young maverick guy. And now I’m the old voice of reason,” he said. That shift comes with its own physical toll, especially when doing action scenes. “If you whip somebody’s ass when you’re our age, you kind of whip your own ass, too,” he laughed. Now 64, Murphy shows no signs of slowing down, but he’s clearly mindful of choosing projects that match where he is today—in both career and life.

Between reprising his role in the “Shrek” franchise, taking on Clouseau, and eyeing a high-energy ensemble remake, Murphy continues to cement his place as one of Hollywood’s enduring comic forces. The Pink Panther may be a familiar property, but with Murphy as the new Clouseau, it’s gearing up for a revival that feels both nostalgic and entirely fresh.