Eddie Murphy to Host the Oscars

Brett Ratner got his wish: Eddie Murphy will host the 84th Academy Awards, the academy announced Tuesday.
"Eddie is a comedic genius, one of the greatest and most influential live performers ever," Ratner, who's producing the Oscars, said. "With his love of movies, history of crafting unforgettable characters and his iconic performances — especially on stage — I know he will bring excitement, spontaneity and tremendous heart to the show Don [Mischer] and I want to produce in February."

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Murphy was reportedly the top choice of Ratner, who directed the comedian in his upcoming film Tower Heist, which hits theaters Nov. 4."I am enormously honored to join the great list of past Academy Award hosts from Hope and Carson to Crystal, Martin and Goldberg, among others," Murphy said. "I'm looking forward to working with Brett and Don on creating a show that is enjoyable for both the fans at home and for the audience at the Kodak Theatre as we all come together to celebrate and recognize the great film contributions and collaborations from the past year."

Brett Ratner and Don Mischer to produce Oscars ceremony

Murphy, 50, was nominated for Best Supporting Actor four years ago for Dreamgirls. He lost to Alan Arkin (Little Miss Sunshine) and famously left the ceremony after his category was announced. He returned to the Kodak two years later to present the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award to Jerry Lewis.The 84th Academy Awards will air live on Sunday, Feb. 26 on ABC.