Bill Cosby ‘Applauds’ Eddie Murphy For Not Playing Him on SNL Sketch

Bill Cosby has publicly thanked Eddie Murphy for declining to play the comedian — who has been accused of sexual assault by more than 20 women — in Saturday Night Live’s 40th anniversary special this weekend.

Cosby’s spokesperson said he was “very appreciative of Eddie and I applaud his actions,” NBC reports.

Norm Macdonald tweeted that he had asked Murphy to play Cosby during a Celebrity Jeopardy sketch, but said Murphy refused:

Kenan Thompson played Cosby instead.

Read next: 5 Essential Moments from SNL‘s 40th Anniversary Special

Listen to the most important stories of the day.

See the Best Impressions on Saturday Night Live