英语文摘:Eddie Murphy exits as Oscar show host

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 9 (Xinhua) -- Actor Eddie Murphy stepped down on Wednesday as host of the 84th Academy Awards telecast, a development which comes a day after show producer Brett Ratner exited due to use of gay slur.

The comedian has withdrawn as host of the upcoming Oscars ceremony, which is slated for Feb. 26, 2012, at the Kodak Theater in Hollywood, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced.

Ratner, who came under fire for using a gay slur at a Los Angeles screening of his film "Tower Heist" Friday evening, resigned as the producer of next year's Academy Awards ceremony due to intense pressure.

"I appreciate how Eddie feels about losing his creative partner, Brett Ratner, and we all wish him well," said Academy President Tom Sherak.

For his part, Murphy said in a prepared statement released by the Academy: "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."

A replacement host was not immediately named.

Ratner, who appreciates Murphy's talent, has cooperated with the "Saturday Night Live" star on "Tower Heist," a film which is expected to change Murphy's downturn in film-making. Ratner was also talking about another project for Murphy.

In September, at the invitation of Ratner, Murphy first took on the hosting duties for the 2012 Oscar event.