Eddie Murphy - Eddie Murphy To Host The Oscars

Eddie Murphy To Host The Oscars

Eddie Murphy is to host the 84th Academy Awards ceremony in February 2012.

The actor-and-comedian - who was nominated for an Oscar himself in 2006 for his role in 'Dreamgirls' and also presented an accolade in 2009 - has been praised by event producers as a "comedic genius" and one of the "most influential" live performers the world has ever seen.

Brett Ratner, co-producer of the Oscars, said in a statement: "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."

Co-producer Don Mischer added: "Eddie is a truly ground-breaking performer, whose amazingly diverse array of roles has won him a devoted audience of all ages. His quick wit and charisma will serve him very well as Oscar host."

The 83rd Academy Awards were hosted by Anne Hathaway and James Franco, and despite their high-profile statuses, many critics disliked their work.

Tim Franco at industry bible The Hollywood Reporter said: "Anne Hathaway at least tried to sing and dance and preen along to the goings on, but Franco seemed distant, uninterested and content to keep his Cheshire-cat-meets-smug smile on display throughout."