In the 1999 film ‘Life’, Eddie Murphy plays Rayford ‘Ray’ Gibson alongside Martin Lawrence as Claude Banks, with supporting cast including Bernie Mac, Obba Babatundé, and more.
Main cast
- Rayford ‘Ray’ GibsonEddie MurphyMain
- Claude BanksMartin LawrenceMain
Supporting cast
- Jangle LegBernie MacSupp
- BiscuitMiguel A. Núñez Jr.Supp
- Willie LongObba BabatundéSupp
- Winston HancockClarence Williams IIISupp
- Can’t Get RightBokeem WoodbineSupp
- SpankyRick JamesSupp
- Dexter WilkinsNed BeattySupp
- Sheriff PikeR. Lee ErmeySupp
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About this cast
Life is a 1999 comedy-drama starring Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence as two men wrongly convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison in 1930s Mississippi. The film follows their decades-long friendship and struggle for freedom.
FAQs
Who plays Rayford Gibson in Life?
Eddie Murphy plays Rayford ‘Ray’ Gibson in the 1999 film Life.
Who plays Claude Banks in Life?
Martin Lawrence plays Claude Banks.
What is the film Life about?
Life is a comedy-drama about two men, Ray and Claude, who are wrongfully convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison in 1930s Mississippi.
Is Life based on a true story?
No, Life is a fictional story, though it was inspired by real historical injustices.
Who directed Life?
The film was directed by Ted Demme.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026