Eddie Murphy Performs First Comedy Routine In Nearly 30 Years

He hasn't performed a live stand-up routine in 28 years but iconic US actor Eddie Murphy returned for a short-but-sweet set when he accepted the Mark Twain Prize for American Humour in Washington on Sunday night. 

After a disappointing spot on Saturday Night Live's 40^th anniversary special earlier this year in which he appeared for less than one minute, the 54-year-old comedian made up for it when he took to the stage at the Kennedy Center for a near-five minute set and roasted disgraced comedian Bill Cosby - a throwback to a memorable routine he performed in 1987's Raw. 

Upon accepting the award, Murphy acknowledged that Cosby has also received the same honour and mentioned the outcry of people demanding Cosby be stripped of all his achievements over years. 

"You know you fucked up when they want you to give your trophies back," Murphy quipped to a massive reception. 

Murphy went on to suggest that Cosby should perform one show where he takes on his haters. Whipping out his classic Cosby impersonation, Murphy said, "I would like to talk to some of the people who feel that I should give back my mother fucking trophies!"

Check out the clip below.

The renowned comic has expressed both desire and resistance to return to stand-up due to concern that his shows could live up to the hype of his hugely successful live concert films of the '80s, Delirious and Raw, though he has admitted that he is constantly writing new material.

However given how well his quick set last night was received, it wouldn't surprise many if Murphy returns to the stage sooner rather than later. 

Meanwhile, Murphy will next be seen on the big screen in drama film Henry Joseph Church, due for release next year. 

He is also in talks for a fourth film of his fan-favourite Beverly Hills Cop series which was also due out in 2016, though earlier this year Paramount Studios pulled the release date due to script concerns.