Eddie Murphy Quits as Oscar Host

Eddie Murphy has quit his intended gig as the host of The 84th Annual Academy Awards. Murphy's decision to not host came a day after Brett Ratner stepped down from his role as producer of the next telecast, after making several controversial statements.

Brett Ratner Out as Oscar Producer
Said Murphy, "First and foremost I want to say that I completely understand and support each party's decision with regard to a change of producers for this year's Academy Awards ceremony. I was truly looking forward to being a part of the show that our production team and writers were just starting to develop, but I'm sure that the new production team and host will do an equally great job."

Ratner had recruited his Tower Heist star, Murphy, as host. Said Academy president Tom Sherak, "I appreciate how Eddie feels about losing his creative partner, Brett Ratner, and we all wish him well."

The Academy Awards are on February 26th, 2012, and no doubt the Academy are now scrambling for a new producer and new host. Billy Crystal, your phone may be ringing any minute…

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