Day one compassion: Eddie Murphy’s never-before-told Beyoncé moment on the Dreamgirls set

Eddie Murphy Shares Unseen Kindness Between Beyoncé and Jennifer Hudson

1. A Candid Reflection During Tough Times
Hollywood legend Eddie Murphy sat down on the August 7 episode of 360 With Speedy, where he opened up about filming Dreamgirls amid a deeply personal chapter—his divorce from Nicole Murphy in 2005 after 12 years of marriage. In his own words, much of making the film “was kind of on automatic pilot” and the details remain blurry in his memory.

2. A Quiet Gesture That Spoke Volumes
Murphy recounted watching a tender, unknowingly witnessed interaction between Beyoncé and Jennifer Hudson during a break in filming. Hudson, new to the film industry, discreetly licked her ashy fingers on stage. Beyoncé immediately intervened, offering cream and gently advising her: “Ooh girl, don’t do that. I’ll get you some cream.” Murphy emphasized that neither had any idea he was watching—and admitted, “this might be the first time I share that with anyone”.

3. Dreamgirls Cast & Legacy Briefly Highlighted
Dreamgirls (2006), directed by Bill Condon, featured a powerhouse cast including Beyoncé as Deena Jones, Jennifer Hudson as Effie White, alongside Jamie Foxx, Danny Glover, and Anika Noni Rose. The critically acclaimed musical drama earned eight Academy Award nominations, with Hudson winning Best Supporting Actress.

4. Benevolence Beyond the Spotlight
This moment Murphy describes may be small in scope, but its resonance is profound. It showcases Beyoncé’s capacity for empathy and support—especially toward a teammate navigating the pressures of stardom. Murphy’s telling offers fans a rare, unscripted glimpse into the kindness and solidarity on a high-stakes film set.

5. The Power of Observing, and Sharing, a Quiet Truth
By bringing this memory to light, Murphy honors the humanity behind the performance. It reminds us that Hollywood isn’t only about glamour and headlines—it’s also shaped by quiet, unsung acts of care that ripple inward and outward. That shared moment of compassion now becomes part of the Dreamgirls lore, adding warmth to its legacy.