Eddie Murphy has been confirmed as the host of the 2012 Oscars.
Telecast producers Brett Ratner and Don Mischer made the official announcement on Tuesday (06Sep11) just days after the Rush Hour director made it clear that the funnyman was his first choice to host the 84th annual awards show in February (12).
Ratner says, "Eddie is a comedic genius, one of the greatest and most influential live performers ever. 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 and I want to produce in February."
Murphy adds, "I am enormously honored to join the great list of past Academy Award hosts from (Bob) Hope and (Johnny) Carson to (Billy) Crystal, (Steve) Martin and (Whoopi) Goldberg, among others.
"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 Theater as we all come together to celebrate and recognize the great film contributions and collaborations from the past year."
Murphy has never won an Oscar but he was nominated in 2006 for his supporting role in Dreamgirls.
Oscars bosses are hoping Murphy will be a big hit among film fans and critics after they were savaged for the appointment of Anne Hathaway and James Franco as co-hosts at this year's (11) Academy Awards.
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