Tracy Morgan talks Eddie Murphy
Comedian Tracy Morgan is full of love and gratitude these days. After being in critical condition from a 2014 car accident on the New Jersey Turnpike, Morgan came out of a coma and made his way back to the comedy scene. The “Saturday Night Live” alum gave his first post-accident performance when he hosted “SNL” in October 2015, which garnered him an Emmy nomination.
Since that time Morgan, 51, has starred in his own TBS show, “The Last O.G.” and appeared in a host of movies ranging from “What Men Want” to “Fist Fight” to “The Night Before.”
Morgan spoke with Newsday reporter David J. Criblez.
You are calling your new tour “No Disrespect.”
What does the title refer to?
It refers to the things I’m going to say. I don’t mean no disrespect.
What topics will you be focusing on?
I ain’t tellin’ you … No disrespect! (laughs) You’ve got to come to the show, baby.
I heard you are going to be in the new “Coming to America” sequel. Is that true?
Eddie Murphy put me in! He’s one of my comedic heroes. Everyday was a ball. So much fun.
What did Eddie Murphy mean to you growing up?
Eddie’s one of my O.G.s … Eddie, Martin (Lawrence), Arsenio (Hall). I met Ed my first year on “Saturday Night Live” when he appeared on “The Rosie O’Donnell Show.” We connected right away.
What did you make of the impression he did of you on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” last year?
It was an honor and the greatest form of flattery. That’s like Michael Jackson writing a song just for you.
Is it true Eddie called you while you were recovering?
Yeah, three days out of my coma, he called. He said that he loved me and to get better. He made me giggle when I was highly sedated.
Did you reach out to Kevin Hart after his accident?
I texted him to get better and said if he needed me I was here for him.
You returned to host “SNL” in October 2015 after your accident. How did you find that experience?
It was incredible, but scary because I didn’t know where my comedic instincts were going to be after the accident. But the young cast really supported me. I let go and I let God. Thankfully it turned out OK.