Eddie Murphy Withdraws as Oscar Host
(© Dreamworks Pictures)
Eddie Murphy has withdrawn as host of the 84th Annual Academy Awards, according to published reports. The ceremony will be held on February 26 at the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles.
Murphy’s announcement comes on the heels of Brett Ratner’s resignation as Oscar producer, following criticism of an anti-gay remark made by Ratner this past weekend in reference to his new film, Tower Heist, which Murphy stars in. (Ratner later issued a public apology for the remark.) No replacement for Murphy has been announced.
The actor and comedian played James “Thunder” Early in the film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical, Dreamgirls, for he which he received an Oscar nomination, a Golden Globe Award, and numerous other honors.
His many other film credits include Shrek, Beverly Hills Cop, and The Nutty Professor. He is also well known for his work on TV’s Saturday Night Live and his many live comedy appearances.
