The Steak And The Myth: Unpacking The Viral 1985 Photo Eddie Murphy Says Never Happened

Few celebrity photos from the 1980s encapsulate the era's extravagance and rockstar excess quite like the image of Eddie Murphy casually eating a steak and fries off a naked model's back. This sensational, decades-old photograph has recently resurfaced, captivating a new generation and reigniting the debate over its authenticity and context. As of December 17, 2025, the conversation around this bizarre moment is more relevant than ever, especially in light of the comedy icon's own surprising comments.

The infamous picture, which allegedly captures the young superstar enjoying a skirt steak frites in a highly unconventional manner, has long been a notorious piece of celebrity folklore. However, the true story is far more complex than a simple scandalous snapshot, involving a recent, definitive denial from Murphy himself that challenges the very foundation of this enduring Hollywood myth.

Eddie Murphy: A Brief Biography and Career Snapshot

To fully appreciate the context of the sensational 1985 photograph, one must understand the meteoric rise of the man at its center. Eddie Murphy's career trajectory is a unique blend of stand-up brilliance, box-office dominance, and cultural impact.

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• Full Name: Edward Regan Murphy
• Born: April 3, 1961 (Age 64 as of 2025)
• Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York, U.S.
• Notable Roles/Characters: Axel Foley (*Beverly Hills Cop*), Prince Akeem (*Coming to America*), Dr. John Dolittle (*Dr. Dolittle*), Sherman Klump (*The Nutty Professor*), Donkey (*Shrek*), Reggie Hammond (*48 Hrs.*).
• Breakthrough: Joined the cast of *Saturday Night Live* (SNL) in 1980 at age 19.
• Stand-up Specials: *Delirious* (1983), *Raw* (1987).
• Awards: Grammy Award (Best Comedy Album), Golden Globe Award (Cecil B. DeMille Award), Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.
• Recent Work: *Dolemite Is My Name* (2019), *Coming 2 America* (2021), *Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F* (Upcoming/2025).
• Family: Father of ten children.

The Infamous 1985 Paris Photo: Skirt Steak, Fries, and a Naked Model

The photograph that sparked decades of curiosity is a potent symbol of 1980s celebrity excess. Circulated widely across early internet forums and now viral on social media platforms like Reddit and Imgur, the image allegedly shows Eddie Murphy in Paris, France, in 1985.

The scene is undeniably provocative: a young, stylish Murphy, at the height of his *Beverly Hills Cop* fame, is seen using a knife and fork to cut into a skirt steak (steak frites) served on a plate resting directly on the back of a completely nude model.

The Context of the Image

The photo’s timing is critical. 1985 was the year Murphy released *Beverly Hills Cop*, cementing his status as a global box-office superstar. The image, whether authentic or staged, captured the public's perception of a young, untouchable celebrity living a life of extreme, boundary-pushing luxury. It instantly became a piece of celebrity lore, often shared with the caption, "You may be cool, but you will never be Eddie Murphy eating a steak off a model's back cool."

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However, the actual origins and authenticity are murky. Some online sources and fact-checkers have suggested the image might be a hoax or a piece of staged art, claiming it was first published much later, possibly in a 2007 magazine called *Simon Says Magazine*.

The Modern-Day Denial: Eddie Murphy Sets the Record Straight

The most current and crucial information regarding this decades-old photo comes directly from Eddie Murphy himself. In a recent interview, the comedy legend addressed the viral image, delivering a definitive statement that completely contradicts the public’s long-held belief.

During an appearance on the *Desus & Mero* show, around the time of the release of *Coming 2 America*, Murphy was directly asked about the infamous photograph. His response was unequivocal: he denied that the event ever took place.

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"I Never Ate Steak Off a Model"

The interview clip, which has since gained its own traction online, serves as the ultimate celebrity fact-check. While the exact quote is a matter of record in the full video, the headline from the segment is clear: "Eddie Murphy Never Ate Steak Off a Model." This denial transforms the image from a scandalous truth into a persistent, viral celebrity myth. It suggests that one of the most famous, provocative photos associated with his name is, in fact, an enduring piece of fake news or a highly elaborate, uncredited parody.

This revelation provides a fresh, unique angle on a story that has been circulating for over 40 years. It forces fans and media to re-evaluate the line between historical fact and sensationalized celebrity legend in the age of viral content.

Beyond the Steak: Eddie Murphy's True Diet and Fitness Secrets

While the "steak on a model" photo represents an image of wild, youthful indulgence, Eddie Murphy's real-life commitment to health and fitness, especially in his sixties, is a testament to discipline and a balanced approach to nutrition. His enduring ability to stay "fresh in shape" is a result of a conscious lifestyle choice, not reckless abandon.

Balanced Nutrition and Consistent Exercise

Murphy's current lifestyle focuses on three key areas: balanced nutrition, consistent exercise, and a positive mindset. Unlike the lavish, potentially fictional steak frites, his real dietary choices are geared toward longevity and sustained energy. His diet emphasizes:

• Mindful Eating: A focus on making conscious, healthy choices rather than following restrictive fad diets.
• Consistent Exercise: Regular physical activity is a cornerstone of his routine, promoting both physical and mental wellness.
• Mental Wellness: A positive mindset and mindfulness are credited as being just as important as diet and exercise for his lasting health.

This disciplined approach contrasts sharply with other famous food anecdotes from his career, such as his legendary stand-up bit about the difference between a homemade "Mom's Burger" and a McDonald's burger, or the famous story of him pretending to eat dog food on *SNL* to save his job.

Ultimately, the story of "Eddie Murphy eating steak" is less about a single meal and more about the power of an image. The 1985 photograph, whether a genuine moment of excess or a sophisticated piece of visual folklore, captured the imagination of the public. Today, the most compelling part of the story is the celebrity's denial, turning a simple picture of a steak into a fascinating, ongoing debate about truth, myth, and the enduring legacy of a comedy icon.