Norm Macdonald: Eddie Murphy Refused to Play Bill Cosby for “SNL40”

Eddie Murphy fans were excited to watch his return for the "Saturday Night Live 40th Anniversary Special" after 30 long years away from Studio 8H.

But many viewers said online that the veteran comedian's time back on the hit NBC show was short-lived and underwhelming.

Norm Macdonald revealed through a stream of tweets Wednesday that there was a different plan for Murphy's return — but it fell through.

Murphy was asked to play Bill Cosby for the Celebrity Jeopardy sketch, but declined to take on the role, according to Macdonald.

Here's what went down:

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https://twitter.com/normmacdonald/status/568207646051807233

But SNL producer and co-writer Steve Higgins had an even better idea in mind...

https://twitter.com/normmacdonald/status/568218458929827840

So what went left? Macdonald explained that Brett Ratner was in the middle of Murphy and the show for the sketch, and explained that the actor didn't feel comfortable.

https://twitter.com/normmacdonald/status/568222325973204994

While one might think that caused Macdonald to get super annoyed and stressed about the situation, he didn't.

Instead, he complimented Murphy for sticking up for what he believes in.

https://twitter.com/normmacdonald/status/568236410882236416

Cosby faces allegations by more than 20 women that he sexually assualted them. He has never been charged and has denied the allegations through his lawyer.

The comedian expressed support for Murphy's gesture.

"I am very appreciative of Eddie and I applaud his actions," Cosby‎ said in a statement to NBC News on Thursday.

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