Eddie Murphy Rumored to Play D.C.’s Marion Barry

According to The Hollywood Reporter, a biopic is under the works to tell the story of former Washington, DC, mayor, Marion Barry. Barry, who is now 75 years old, served as DC’s mayor from 1979 to 1991, and again from 1995 to 1999. And although Barry made positive contributions to D.C., he became well known nationally, in January 1990, when he was videotaped smoking crack cocaine and arrested by FBI officials on drug charges. He served six months in prison and was later re-elected. Fast forward to the present day, and Barry’s (who now sits on the DC City Council) story will be directed by Spike Lee. If the project moves forward, it’s reported that comedian/actor Eddie Murphy will play Barry. But don’t get too excited, the Washington Post noted:

“It’s not the first time the network has considered milking the Barry drama: In 2002, filming was reportedly due to start on a movie starring Jamie Foxx and written by Chris Rock that somehow never happened.”

[Politico & WKYS]