After the critical drubbing given to James Franco and Anne Hathaway, and mediocre reviews for previous dueling hosts Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin, the Academy Awards will be going back to their roots for the 84th edition. One person serving as a host. More importantly, one person whose career as a comedian is legendary, even if his movie output lately has been terrible. No, not Billy Crystal. We’re talking Buckwheat himself, Eddie Murphy! That’s right, gang; Eddie Murphy will be the host of the 84th Academy Awards on February 26, 2012.
“Eddie is a comedic genius, one of the greatest and most influential live performers ever,” said Brett Ratner on Tuesday; Ratner is producing the Oscars AND he’s directing Murphy’s upcoming film Tower Heist. “With his love of movies, history of crafting unforgettable characters and his iconic performances — especially onstage — I know he will bring an excitement, spontaneity and tremendous heart to the show Don and I want to produce in February.”
I’m sure they’re very excited about getting Eddie on stage, but he’s no Betty White. I’d still rather see Betty host the Oscars, but if you can’t get your first choice, Eddie Murphy is a pretty good backup plan.
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