"My superpower is that I am always, always present": Eddie Murphy explains his approach to raising 10 children

Eddie Murphy has spoken openly about his life as a father to 10 children. The actor, in a recent interview with PEOPLE at the Being Eddie premiere, shared how his “superpower” is always being present. He claimed that his parenting style is most significant in terms of being available.

At the Los Angeles premiere, Murphy further explained how he perceives his position at home. He said that he primarily tries to present himself to his children daily in all respects. His remarks provided a clear insight into how he copes with parenting requirements.

Murphy also stated that his family life comes first. He said this has not changed despite his long association with Hollywood. He added that he values being present and that, whatever else may be occurring, he does not care.

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Eddie Murphy's idea of being present

Eddie Murphy said his biggest strength as a parent is showing up. He shared this with PEOPLE at the event.

He said, "My superpower is that I am always, always present."

He explained that his children always know where he is.

He said, "Talk to one of my kids anytime of day and ask, 'Where's your dad right now?' and they can look at their watch and tell you literally what part of the house I'm in."

He also added that this has always been his way.

He said, "Dad is always present and always has been."

Murphy spoke in a simple way about what presence means to him. He did not point to big moments. He focused on everyday life and being around his children.

Murphy became a father in 1989 when his first child, Eric, was born. He now has children from past relationships and his marriage to Paige Butcher. His children range in age from 36 to 6. He has often said that his big family grew naturally over time.

He once shared, “It just happened. I never knew I would have 10 kids, but now it’s the best thing ever."

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How Eddie Murphy sees reactions to his big family

Murphy has also noticed how people react to the size of his family. He spoke about this during a 2019 appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. He said men are shocked by the number of children he has.

He shared, “Men kind of look at me like, ‘He’s crazy. How much did that s--- cost?’”

He then explained that women respond differently.

He said, “And women, there’s something sexy about it. ‘Eddie Murphy must be doing his thing. Eddie Murphy be gettin’ it in.’”

His comments showed that he sees humor in how others view him.

Murphy also talked about the support he receives at home. He credits his wife, Paige Butcher, for helping keep the family strong.

He said, "Oh, she's at the center of it. She pulled it all together. I got a winner with Paige."

He said they married in a small ceremony in Anguilla in 2024, years after they began dating in 2012.

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