Eddie Murphy Will Star in Peacock Drama The Chairman
The upcoming series will mark Eddie Murphy's first live-action scripted role in a television series.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Television
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Eddie Murphy will headline a new drama series titled The Chairman, which is currently in development at the streaming platform Peacock. The project is created by Matthew Weiner and represents the first scripted television role for Murphy.
Why it matters
The series represents a major creative partnership as it unites the legendary comedian with the creator behind acclaimed television dramas. It also serves as a milestone project for the production collaboration between NBCUniversal and 101 Studios.
Eddie Murphy previously spent 4 seasons as a cast member on Saturday Night Live, while creator Matthew Weiner oversaw the 7-season run of Mad Men on AMC.
The players
Eddie Murphy
He is an iconic actor and comedian who is taking on his first-ever live-action scripted role for a television series.
Matthew Weiner
He is a renowned television writer and producer best known for creating the critically acclaimed drama series Mad Men.
Chris McCarthy
He is a media executive who holds a consulting role regarding the partnership between NBCUniversal and 101 Studios.
The details
Universal Television and 101 Studios are producing the series, which stems from a first-look deal between 101 Studios and NBCUniversal. Both Murphy and Weiner are attached to the project as executive producers.
Timeline
In November 2025, Chris McCarthy's consulting deal at NBCUniversal was reported.
In January 2026, 101 Studios initiated a first-look deal with NBCUniversal.
Industry Dynamics
The production follows the precedent set by the 7-season run of Mad Men on AMC, signaling a move toward high-profile creative collaborations in streaming. This shift highlights how platforms are leveraging established talent to build their scripted library during the ongoing streaming wars.
Viewers will be able to stream the new drama exclusively on Peacock once the series completes its production cycle. Fans of scripted dramas can expect this project to be a primary offering in the streaming platform's future content lineup.
The takeaway
This development highlights the industry trend of bringing major film stars into prestige television roles. Audiences should look for further announcements regarding production timelines as the studio collaboration progresses.
Further reading
Explore the evolving landscape of digital entertainment in the Television section.
Live Poll
Would you be more likely to watch a streaming drama series if it stars Eddie Murphy?
