Eddie Murphy Exits as Oscar Host

Eddie Murphy has stepped down as host of the 84th Academy Awards telecast. The move comes a day after show producer Brett Ratner exited.

Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences President Tom Sherak said Wednesday in a statement, "I appreciate how Eddie feels about losing his creative partner, Brett Ratner, and we all wish him well."

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."

More details to follow.

– The Hollywood Reporter