Eddie Murphy drops out as Oscars Host

First Brett Ratner and now Eddie Murphy has dropped out as host of the Oscars only three months before the event. Deadline reports that the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences and ABC have been left scrambling to find replacements. This leaves only veteran TV producer Don Mischer on board to try to salvage the February 26 ceremony.

Here is AMPAS’ statement on Murphy’s departure:

Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences President Tom Sherak announced that Eddie Murphy has withdrawn as host of the 84th Academy Awards.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.

Commented 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.”

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.

I think that Murphy's departure is a shame. His hosting would have been a great chance to regain some love for his career. I say have Ricky Gervais, Hugh Jackman or Conan O'Brien host. Who would you like to see take over as host?