Eddie Murphy Exits as Host of 84th Annual Academy Awards

Eddie Murphy bows out as the 84th Academy Awards host

Yesterday we reported that Brett Ratner has stepped down as producer of the 84th Annual Academy Awards. Today, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced 84th Annual Academy Awards host Eddie Murphy has also exited the awards ceremony. Here is the official statement from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences below.

“Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences President Tom Sherak announced that Eddie Murphy has withdrawn as host of the 84th Academy Awards. “I appreciate how Eddie feels about losing his creative partner, Brett Ratner, and we all wish him well,” said Sherak.”

Eddie Murphy made the following comments.

“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.”

Academy Awards for outstanding film achievements of 2011 will be presented on Sunday, February 26, 2012, at the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center, and televised live by the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 200 countries worldwide.

We imagine the Academy will start searching for a new host for the 84th Annual Academy Awards right away.

The Academy Awards episode 84.1, “84th Annual Academy Awards” airs on ABC February 26th, 2012.