Eddie Murphy
Eddie Murphy is no longer hosting the Oscars in February, the actor confirmed on Wednesday. His exit comes one day after producer Brett Ratner announced he was out of the show. REUTERS

Eddie Murphy will be the host for next year's Oscar Awards Ceremony, producers Brett Ratner and Don Mischer announced Tuesday. With the inclusion of the actor and comedian as host, the 84th annual Academy Awards strive to revive their waning brands.

The show has been trying to regain its past glory in recent years, but last year fell on its face with a viewer decline of 9.9 percent from 2010, said reports. Anne Hathaway and James Franco failed to attract younger viewers, as hoped by the producers.

Does Murphy's Inclusion Indicate Oscar's Getting Back to its Comedic Roots?

Oscar producers' attempt to take Murphy on board certainly indicates its effort to go back to its comedic roots, which was always successful and appreciated by both critics and viewers. It is hoped that Murphy, as host of the show, will follow the tradition of Bob Hope, Johnny Carson, Billy Crystal, Chevy Case, Steve Martin and Whoopi Goldberg.

Murphy's Career

Murphy, 50, started his career as a stand-up comedian on Saturday Night Live, where he performed as a junior actor. He made his film debut in 1982 in 48 Hours.

His roles in films like Beverly Hills Cop, Nutty Professor, and Dreamgirls fetched awards for his commendable performances. Murphy is now busy wrapping up Tower Heist, an action-comedy scheduled for November release. The director of the movie Brett Ratner is also the co-producer of the 84th Oscars, set for Feb. 26.

This is Murphy's first time hosting the prestigious awards. The veteran comedian said in a statement that he is enormously honored.