Murray is a disembodied talking skull. He was separated from his body when Guybrush Threepwood shot his rowboat out of the water during the battle for Plunder Island at the beginning of The Curse of Monkey Island. In their first conversation together Murray's disposition and megalomania become apparent since despite having no arms or body he intends to rule the world.

Murray has become a fan favourite, resulting in cameo appearances in the fourth and fifth games. He was featured in the initial test-versions of CMI and became so popular that he was given more appearances throughout the game. Murray's unrelenting megalomania while at the same time being completely unable to do anything other than talk and hop around is thought to make him a popular character.