Hercules, Hercules, Hercules!
Eddie Murphy has been making people laugh for three decades, and he is now set to take his jokes—and unique laugh—to the Kodak Theatre where he will be hosting the Academy Awards next year.
Rumors of Murphy hosting the Oscars have been swirling around for several days but the official announcement came on Tuesday, when the people at the Oscars announced that the comedian will host the award show.
This will be Murphy’s first Oscars hosting gig.
Producers of the Academy Awards called Murphy a “comedic genius” for his ability to create “unforgettable” characters in his films.
Some of those unique movie characters include: Doctor Doolittle, Nutty Professor and Norbit.
The comedian is also known as the voice of “Donkey” from the popular “Shrek” movies.
Murphy said in a statement: “I am enormously honored to join the great list of past Academy Award hosts from Hope and Carson to Crystal, Martin and Goldberg, among others.
“I’m looking forward to working with Brett and Don on creating a show that is enjoyable for both the fans at home and for the audience at the Kodak Theatre as we all come together to celebrate and recognize the great film contributions and collaborations from the past year.”
He began his successful career as a stand-up comedian at the age of 15, and joined “Saturday Night Live” four years later. Murphy’s movies have earned him over $7 billion worldwide, according to the statement.
“Eddie is a comedic genius, one of the greatest and most influential live performers ever,” said Oscars producer Brett 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.”
ABC will air the popular awards show on Feb. 26.
Some of Murphy’s popular movies include:
- Trading Places
- Beverly Hills Cop
- Harlem Nights
- Coming to America
- 48 Hrs.
- Nutty Professor
- Doctor Dolittle
- Dreamgirls
