Eddie Murphy quits as Oscar host after Ratner bows out
Eddie Murphy has stepped down from hosting the Oscars. His decision comes a day after his friend Brett Ratner -- who directedhim in Tower Heist -- quit as the producer of the awards show. Ratner had embarrassed
Eddie Murphy has stepped down from hosting the Oscars. His decision comes a day after his friend Brett Ratner — who directed him in Tower Heist — quit as the producer of the awards show.
Ratner had embarrassed the Academy by telling fans at a Q&A that “rehearsal is for fags” – less than politically correct in an industry, and a city, with a large gay community.
But it was Ratner — hired by the Academy to liven up the show after last year’s lack-lustre and humorless effort — who brought in Murphy, so his departure made it likely that the comic would leave with him.
Murphy said he understood and supported each party’s decision and he had been truly looking forward to being part of the show. But he says he’s sure the new production team and host will do an equally great job.
The Academy President Tom Sherak said he appreciated how Murphy felt about losing his creative partner.
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