Eddie Murphy Reveals Childhood OCD Struggle in Candid Netflix Documentary

Comedian and actor Eddie Murphy has opened up about his lifelong experience with obsessive-compulsive disorder. The revelation comes from his new Netflix documentary, Being Eddie, which offers an intimate look at his personal life. Murphy traced his compulsive behaviors back to his childhood, describing nightly rituals he kept secret for years.

The star explained he only understood his actions after seeing a news report on OCD. This newfound knowledge prompted him to consciously fight his compulsions, a battle he admits continues to this day.

From Secret Rituals to Public Confession

Murphy described a specific nightly routine from his youth. He would repeatedly check the kitchen stove to ensure all the gas was turned off. This pattern would last for about an hour each night before he could sleep.

He told himself it was just “some weird s–t” he did. According to his account, his mother and others were unaware of this struggle. It was a private battle until a television news segment provided a name for his experience.

A Lifelong Habit and Its Creative Impact

Learning about OCD was a turning point for Murphy. He said the realization that it was a form of mental illness made him defiant. He decided to force himself to stop the repetitive behaviors through sheer willpower.

The habit, however, was not entirely broken. Murphy confessed he still checks the stove every night. He now consciously stops himself from performing the ritual more than once. He also speculated that his obsessive attention to detail may have contributed to his success in comedy.

Murphy’s public discussion of his private mental health journey marks a significant moment for OCD awareness, demonstrating that the condition can affect anyone, even global icons.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is Eddie Murphy’s new documentary called?

His new documentary is titled *Being Eddie*. It is currently streaming on Netflix. The project offers a personal look at his journey from stand-up comic to movie star.

When did Eddie Murphy’s OCD behaviors start?

Murphy’s obsessive-compulsive behaviors began in his childhood. He described nightly rituals of checking the stove. He kept these compulsions secret from his family at the time.

How did Eddie Murphy realize he had OCD?

He recognized his symptoms after watching a news report about obsessive-compulsive disorder. This was the first time he had a name for his experiences. The report connected his private rituals to a known mental health condition.

Does Eddie Murphy still experience OCD symptoms?

Yes, Murphy stated he still checks the stove every night. He now actively works to prevent the compulsive behavior from repeating. He told himself not to “start that s–t again” if he feels the urge to check twice.

What other celebrities have spoken about mental health?

Many public figures have shared their stories. This includes Dwayne Johnson, Selena Gomez, and Prince Harry. Their openness helps reduce stigma and encourages others to seek help.