It was widely known that the only reason comedy star Eddie Murphy took the hosting position of the 84th Academy Awards telecast was for a personal favor of his Tower Heist director Brett Ratner. But now that Ratner has backed out, Murphy saw it as his escape route and quit!

In a statement made by Tom Sherak, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences president, he said, “I appreciate how Eddie feels about losing his creative partner, Brett Ratner, and we all wish him well.”

Damn! Celebs are always talking about how much of an honor hosting the Oscars would be… looks like Eddie doesn’t agree.

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

The Oscars now needs a new host before February 26, 2012 or they’re screwed! Who do you think they’re going to bring back? Baldwin? Martin? Franco? Yah you’re right… Probably not Franco.