Eddie Murphy Steals the Show with Uncanny Tracy Morgan Impression on ‘SNL50’

The Saturday Night Live 50th anniversary special (SNL50) on February 16, 2025, was a night to remember, filled with nostalgia, laughter, and unforgettable moments. But one performance stood out above the rest: Eddie Murphy’s triumphant return to the SNL stage, where he delivered a show-stopping impression of fellow cast member Tracy Morgan during a hilarious installment of the beloved “Black Jeopardy!” sketch.

A Triumphant Return for Eddie Murphy

Eddie Murphy, one of SNL’s most legendary cast members, made his long-awaited return to the show, reminding everyone why he’s considered a comedy icon. Murphy’s appearance was highly anticipated, and he did not disappoint. His performance in the “Black Jeopardy!” sketch was a masterclass in comedic timing and character work, but it was his spot-on impression of Tracy Morgan that truly stole the show.

A Pitch-Perfect Impression

Murphy’s portrayal of Morgan was nothing short of perfection. From his exaggerated mannerisms to his signature comedic delivery, Murphy captured every nuance of Morgan’s personality. The real Tracy Morgan was standing right beside him, adding an extra layer of hilarity to the moment. Murphy’s Morgan ranted about his refusal to eat lasagna with fewer than three cheeses and jokingly claimed that James Earl Jones was his biological father. The audience erupted in laughter, and the sketch became an instant classic.

The “Black Jeopardy!” sketch, hosted by Kenan Thompson as Darnell Hayes, also featured Leslie Jones as a contestant. The chemistry between the cast members was electric, and the addition of Murphy’s Morgan impression elevated the sketch to new heights.

The Legacy of “Black Jeopardy!”

“Black Jeopardy!” has become one of SNL’s most iconic recurring sketches, known for its sharp humor and insightful commentary on cultural differences. The sketch cleverly plays with stereotypes and assumptions, creating moments that are both laugh-out-loud funny and thought-provoking.

In this special anniversary edition, the sketch touched on the show’s potential unfamiliarity to Black audiences, referencing Soul Train and In Living Color as alternative answers to a question about late-night sketch comedy. The sketch’s ability to blend humor with social commentary has made it a fan favorite and a significant part of SNL’s legacy.

Star-Studded Cameos

Adding to the sketch’s star power, Chris Rock made a surprise appearance, tagging in for a question. Tom Hanks also reprised his role as Doug, the MAGA-hat-wearing contestant from a previous “Black Jeopardy!” sketch. Hanks’s original appearance in the sketch remains a fan favorite, with over 83 million views on YouTube. His character, initially seeming out of place, finds common ground with the other contestants, creating a moment that is both heartwarming and hilarious.

Eddie Murphy: A Comedy Legend

Eddie Murphy’s return to SNL was a reminder of his unparalleled comedic genius. His ability to embody other characters, whether it’s his iconic impressions or his original creations, has always been a hallmark of his performances. Murphy’s contributions to SNL have left an indelible mark on comedy, and his appearance on SNL50 was a celebration of his enduring talent.

A Night to Remember

The SNL50 anniversary special was a star-studded event, filled with memorable moments and tributes to the show’s rich history. From surprise cameos to nostalgic sketches, the special was a love letter to five decades of SNL. But it was Eddie Murphy’s Tracy Morgan impression during the “Black Jeopardy!” sketch that stood out as the highlight of the night.

Murphy’s performance was a testament to his comedic brilliance and a reminder of why SNL has remained a cultural institution for 50 years. As the show continues to evolve, moments like these remind us of the timeless power of laughter and the incredible talent that has graced the SNL stage.

What was your favorite moment from SNL50? Let us know in the comments below!