Eddie Murphy, one of the most revered comedians of our time, has shared his life with many remarkable women. Since 2018, he has been engaged to Paige Butcher, an Australian model and actress. This article explores their relationship, Butcher’s background, and their family life together.
A Journey Through Eddie Murphy’s Past Relationships
Before meeting Butcher, Eddie Murphy had a series of high-profile relationships. He was married to Nicole Murphy from 1993 to 2005, and together they have five children. Murphy also shares children with Paulette McNeely, Tamara Hood, and Mel B. Following a brief relationship with TV producer Tracey Edmonds, which ended in 2008, Murphy kept a relatively low dating profile until he met Butcher.
Paige Butcher: Early Life and Career
Born in Perth, Australia, Paige Butcher grew up influenced by the fashion world, thanks to her mother, a fashion designer. In a 2013 Vanity Fair interview, Butcher revealed that modeling her mother’s designs sparked her interest in the industry. At 13, she began to take modeling seriously, attending Santa Maria College in Attadale, Australia.
In 1994, Butcher’s modeling career took a significant leap when she won the Cover Girl Cosmetics Supermodel Search, earning a contract with IMG Models. This opportunity led her to New York City, where she worked for various magazines and brands, including a cover for Maxim in 2004. Despite her success in modeling, Butcher also ventured into acting, landing minor roles in films like “Something’s Gotta Give” and “Big Momma’s House 2.”
Meeting Eddie Murphy: A Love Story
Murphy and Butcher began dating in 2012, making their first public appearance in November of that year at the Spike TV tribute, Eddie Murphy: One Night Only. Their relationship blossomed, and they were often seen together at public events, including basketball games and red carpet appearances.
In September 2018, the couple got engaged while expecting their second child. A representative for Murphy confirmed the news after Butcher was seen wearing a diamond ring. They share two children: a daughter, Izzy Oona Murphy, born on May 3, 2016, and a son, Max Charles Murphy, born on November 30, 2018.
Family Life and Privacy
Murphy and Butcher have always prioritized their family over public life. In a 2020 interview with Vanity Fair, Murphy emphasized that his family is at the center of his life, not his career. Butcher, too, values privacy and has opted out of social media to keep her personal life away from public scrutiny.
Butcher is also a dedicated stepmother to Murphy’s children from previous relationships. A source told PEOPLE in 2018 that she is “very close with Eddie’s kids,” highlighting the harmonious family dynamic they have built together.
Butcher’s Personal Interests and Charity Work
Despite her public profile, Butcher prefers a quiet life filled with outdoor activities. As an Australian, she loves nature and incorporates fitness into her daily life through hiking, biking, and gardening. She avoids traditional gym workouts, finding them boring, and instead enjoys activities that keep her engaged and entertained.
Butcher is also deeply involved in charitable work. She began volunteering with Habitat for Humanity when she moved to New York City and has since worked with organizations like New York Cares and Kids Enjoy Exercise Now. In Los Angeles, she volunteers at homeless shelters and helps the nonprofit Baby2Baby, which provides essential items for children.
Supporting Each Other’s Careers
Throughout their relationship, Butcher has been a constant support for Murphy. She rarely misses his public appearances, from movie premieres to award shows. At the 2020 Golden Globes, when asked about a sweet whisper from Murphy, she revealed that he often compliments her, showing his romantic side. Murphy also publicly acknowledged Butcher and his children for their support during his acceptance speech for the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the same event.
Recent Public Appearances
Most recently, Butcher accompanied Murphy to the Los Angeles premiere of “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” in June 2024, joined by Murphy’s daughters Bria, Shayne Audra, and Bella. This event highlighted the close-knit nature of their family, showcasing their mutual support and affection.
Conclusion
Eddie Murphy and Paige Butcher’s relationship is a testament to their commitment to family and privacy. Despite their public personas, they have managed to build a life centered around love and mutual respect. Butcher’s background and career, coupled with her dedication to charity and family, make her a remarkable partner for one of the greatest comedians of our time.
