Eddie Murphy Steps Down as Oscar Host

Following yesterday’s announcement of Brett Ratner’s departure from the 84th Academy Awards comes official word from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences that host Eddie Murphy has stepped down as well.

“I appreciate how Eddie feels about losing his creative partner, Brett Ratner, and we all wish him well,” said AMPAS President Tom 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.”

No replacements have been announced, but the Awards show will still air on February 26, 2012.

(Photo Credit: WENN.com)