Now Eddie Murphy drops out of the Oscars?

What's this? Eddie Murphy drops out now? For what?

Murphy has withdrawn as the host, according to a statement released by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences.

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

Late Tuesday, Ratner exited his job as executive producer of the awards ceremony after a firestorm erupted when he used a gay slur during a public screening of his film “Tower Heist” (which co-stars Murphy). He later apologized, though eventually was ousted as producer of the Oscars.

“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,” 

Murphy said in a statement. “I was truly looking forward to being part of the show that our production team and writers were just starting to develop, but I’m sure the new production team and host will do an equally great job."

So he's doing this to support his friend? Seriously Eddie, that didn't help your career. He may be playing animated donkeys forever.

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Eddie Murphy will Host the 84th Academy Awards

This is cute. Eddie Murphy will host the Oscars

Oscar® nominee Eddie Murphy, whose performing career spans movies, television and the stage, will host this year's Academy Awards show on Sunday, February 26, 2012, telecast producers Brett Ratner and Don Mischer announced today.  

This will be Murphy's first hosting stint on the Oscars®. "Eddie is a comedic genius, one of the greatest and most influential live performers ever," said Ratner.  "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.

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More Batman Rumors

I hope by the grace of Athena these are rumors. The UK mag rag, The Sun, claims that Eddie Murphy will be the Riddler and Shia LaBouf will play Robin.

The Beverly Hills Cop star, 47, has been signed up by British director CHRISTOPHER NOLAN to reprise the role played by JIM CARREY in 1995’s Batman Forever. The film, set for a 2010 release, is being developed under the working title Gotham. Execs have also signed up rising Transformers star SHIA LABEOUF, 22, to play Robin. CHRISTIAN BALE will return as Bruce Wayne, while MICHAEL CAINE will again play Bruce’s assistant Alfred. A film insider said: “Chris wasn’t sure if he wanted to do another movie but as soon as he decided to, he got the wheels in motion.

“Eddie’s a fantastic addition. Everyone’s excited to see what he does as the Riddler.”

No! This is madness! I know this is just a prank or someone's been in the liquor and LSD drawer again. But the folks at The Sun are sticking to their story. I hope someone clear this up soon.

Besides, Shia would make a horrible Robin.