Hollywood actor and comedian Eddie Murphy is joining forces with South African actress Ama Qamata for M’Tali: The Everlasting Spring, an upcoming animated family fantasy rooted in an imagined African kingdom. The project brings together Murphy, renowned for voicing Donkey in the Shrek franchise, and Qamata, widely recognised for her role as Puleng Khumalo in Netflix’s Blood & Water. Qamata will voice Princess Selani, the young heroine at the centre of the story, while Murphy takes on the role of Vakoro, her ambitious and villainous uncle. The announcement, first reported exclusively by Deadline, introduces a cross-continental creative collaboration that places African-inspired storytelling at the heart of a new animated adventure.
Set in the fictional kingdom of M’Tali, the story follows Selani, a young princess who dreams of exploring the world beyond the palace but is uncertain about the responsibilities awaiting her as the future queen. Her life takes an unexpected turn when a coup separates her from her family and forces her into the Forbidden Jungle. There, she encounters a mysterious family that has discovered the legendary Everlasting Spring, a magical source of water believed to preserve youth forever. As she confronts her uncle’s ambitions, Selani must discover what truly sustains a kingdom beyond wealth, power or magical objects. The coming-of-age fantasy will also incorporate musical elements, exploring themes of courage, family, leadership and belonging.
The project carries a significant family connection, with Murphy’s daughter, Bria Murphy, co-writing the original story with Michael Xavier, marking her feature screenwriting debut. Michael Xavier, Bria Murphy, Ray Murphy Jr., Autumn Bailey-Ford and Chris Brew are attached as producers. The team is currently seeking a director as well as potential studio, streaming and production partners, meaning the film remains in development without a confirmed release date. For Qamata, the project represents another international opportunity following her work across South African television and film, while Murphy adds a new animated character to a career that has helped shape some of the genre’s most recognisable performances.
