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Eddie Murphy is standing his ground when it comes to his 2007 comedy Norbit. Despite persistent speculation that the film’s reception may have cost him an Academy Award for Dreamgirls, the comedic icon isn't backing down, playfully dismissing the criticism he received at the time.

During a recent interview, Murphy reflected on the backlash he faced following Norbit's release, specifically the wave of Razzie Awards he received. He took home the coveted (or perhaps not-so-coveted) prizes for Worst Actress, Worst Actor, and Worst Actor of the Decade – a trifecta of comedic failure in the eyes of the Razzie Awards voters.

“Here’s the thing with Norbit,” Murphy stated with a chuckle. “It came out, and they gave me Razzie Awards for worst actress, worst actor and worst actor of the decade. And I was like, ‘Come on now.’”

The comments reignite a long-standing rumor that Murphy’s performance in Norbit – a film known for its over-the-top characters and broad humor – may have damaged his reputation within the Academy, potentially impacting his chances of winning the Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his acclaimed role as James 'Thunder' Early in Dreamgirls, for which he was nominated.

Many believed that Murphy was a frontrunner for the Oscar prior to the release of Norbit, and that the film's negative reception shifted the narrative, ultimately leading to his loss to Alan Arkin for Little Miss Sunshine. While Murphy hasn’t directly addressed the Oscar speculation, his recent comments suggest he’s not dwelling on the potential impact of Norbit on his awards chances.

Norbit, a vehicle for Murphy’s signature brand of comedic excess, follows the titular character as he navigates a series of hilarious mishaps and romantic entanglements. The film featured a star-studded cast, including Thandie Newton, Katt Williams, and Jenny McCarthy, and while it was a box office success, it received overwhelmingly negative reviews and earned a place in Razzie Awards history.

Murphy’s willingness to revisit this chapter of his career with humor and self-awareness speaks to his resilience and his ability to laugh at himself. He continues to be a major force in comedy, and his recent projects demonstrate his versatility and enduring appeal. Whether or not Norbit had an impact on his Oscar prospects, Murphy remains a beloved and influential figure in Hollywood.

The discussion around Norbit and its potential impact on Murphy’s career highlights the complex relationship between critical reception, awards recognition, and a comedian’s legacy. It also serves as a reminder that even the biggest stars face setbacks and criticism along the way, and that a good sense of humor can be the best defense against it all.