Eddie Murphy Quits Oscars Hosting Job

After the resignation of his frequent creative collaborator Brett Ratner as Producer of this year's Oscars, Eddie Murphy has resigned his job as host as well. Murphy released a statement through the Academy today announcing his decision.

"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," said Murphy.

"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," said the legendary actor/comedian.

Ratner quit the show (with presumably some gentle nudging from the Academy) after he was called out for using a gay slur during a "Tower Heist" press tour. He also made things worse by showing up on "Howard Stern" and acting like a serious douche while discussing actress Olivia Munn.

Ratner released a statment of apology to the public at large (and specifically the gay community) when he announced he would be pulling out of his Oscars gig.

"Over the last few days, I’ve gotten a well-deserved earful from many of the people I admire most in this industry expressing their outrage and disappointment over the hurtful and stupid things I said in a number of recent media appearances. To them, and to everyone I’ve hurt and offended, I’d like to apologize publicly and unreservedly," said Ratner, before explaining his decision to exit stage left.

Read that entire statement here.

E! reports that Academy president Tom Sherak said of Murphy's departure, "I appreciate how Eddie feels about losing his creative partner, Brett Ratner, and we all wish him well."

Who do you think should replace Eddie Murphy?