19 Most extraordinary debut performances in Hollywood

Published Jan 27, 2025 09:53 ET

Dreamgirls (2006) | Image Source: DreamWorks Pictures — Dreamgirls (2006) | Image Source: Prime Video

9. Eddie Murphy - 48 Hrs. (1982)

Eddie Murphy - 48 Hrs. (1982) | Image Source: Paramount Pictures

Eddie Murphy's detonation in the explosive 48 Hrs. presented his natural sense of comedy with undeniable star quality. As Reggie Hammond, a wisecracking convict paired with the gruffness of Nick Nolte's cop, Murphy performs replete with both humor and charm infused with grittiness. Balancing quick-witted one-liners through the film with its tense action, he set the tone high for the genre of buddy cops. At just 21, he stole every scene going, cementing himself as one of Hollywood's potential icons.