When stepping into a long-standing franchise, keeping the humor fresh can be a challenge. For Taylour Paige, her role as Eddie Murphy’s estranged daughter in the latest “Beverly Hills Cop” film was an opportunity to bring lightness and joy to the screen. In a recent interview with Empire, Paige shared her motivation for joining the project.
“The world often feels like it’s in a chronic coma,” Paige remarked. “Without being too grandiose, I want to be part of something that helps people snap out of it.”
Paige believes that “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” will achieve this, largely due to the influence of her co-star, Eddie Murphy. “I grew up watching ‘The Nutty Professor’ and ‘Dr. Dolittle.’ It felt surreal, like I already knew him,” she said.
Drawing inspiration from Murphy, Paige gauged the success of her scenes by his reactions. “The objective was to try and get the man who made the world laugh to laugh,” she explained. “I found it quite fun to crack him.”
This isn’t the first time Paige has drawn from those around her to enhance her performance. In her previous films, “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” and “Zola,” she worked with notable talents like Viola Davis, Colman Domingo, and the late Chadwick Boseman. These experiences were pivotal in her growth as an artist.
“Those films changed my life,” Paige said. “Being surrounded by such incredible artists and people who think in absurd ways like me, and feeling both seen and understood, was significant in my expansion.”
Looking ahead, Paige expressed her desire to continue creating meaningful work. “I want to put beautiful things into the world, to stir something up. I’d like to be a part of the awakeners. We’re only here for a blip. Help your brother, help your sister, and do the thing — whatever that thing is — well. Do it right and do it purely. And if it’s not right, hurry up and get off that path.”
In “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F,” Murphy reprises his iconic role as Axel Foley, a Detroit-born cop. The film sees Foley teaming up with his new partner, Detective Bobby Abbott, played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, after his estranged daughter, criminal defense attorney Jane Saunders (Paige), faces a life-threatening situation.
The film, set to premiere on Netflix on July 3, 2024, also features the return of original cast members Judge Reinhold, John Ashton, Paul Reiser, and Bronson Pinchot. With Jerry Bruckheimer back as producer and Mark Molloy directing from a script by Will Beall, fans are eagerly anticipating this new chapter in the beloved series.
Paige’s enthusiasm for the project and her joy in making Murphy laugh on set highlight the positive energy she brings to her roles. Her commitment to creating uplifting and entertaining content is evident, and fans are excited to see her dynamic with Murphy in the upcoming film.
