‘Comedic Genius’ Eddie Murphy to Host 2012 Oscars

Nutty Professor Eddie Murphy is expected to exude his charm and bring a smile on every one's face at the 84th Academy Awards. Rumors about the actor hosting the 2012 Oscars have been finally confirmed.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that Murphy will host the Academy Awards, to be telecast on Feb. 26 on ABC.

Brett Ratner, who is producing the show with Don Mischer, called Murphy a comedic genius and 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 onstage -- I know he will bring an excitement, spontaneity and tremendous heart to the show Don and I want to produce in February, Ratner said Tuesday.

Murphy is starring in the upcoming film Tower Heist, which was directed by Ratner and is expected to release in November.

The 50-year-old actor said that he was looking forward to working with the producers and creating a show that is enjoyable for both the fans at home and for the audience.

Murphy first garnered attention as a regular actor at Saturday Night Live, performing characters like Buckwheat and Gumby. He made his big screen debut in the film 48 Hours for which he received a Golden Globe Award nomination. Murphy also received Golden Globe nominations for Beverly Hills Cop series, Trading Places and The Nutty Professor. He won the Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of soul singer James Thunder Early in 2006's Dreamgirls. The movie also earned him an Academy Award nomination for the Best Supporting Actor.

The actor also lent is voice to the animated character Donkey in the hit Shrek series.