The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced today that a replacement has been found for Brett Ratner’s now-vacant producer position for the Oscars, and it’s Brian Grazer ( The Da Vinci Code , A Beautiful Mind ).
Now that Grazer has been named producer, his first order of business will be to hunt down a replacement for Eddie Murphy, who announced today that he is stepping down as host of the 84th annual Academy Awards.
“It’s very gratifying to be part of a show that honors excellence in the medium to which I have devoted so much of my career,” said Grazer in a statement. “Don [Don Mischer, a co-producer on the Oscars] is a legend, and I am excited to work with him.”
Academy president Tom Sherak chimed in on the announcement, saying:
“Brian Grazer is a renowned filmmaker who over the past 25 years has produced a diverse and extraordinary body of work,” said Sherak. “He will certainly bring his tremendous talent, creativity and relationships to the Oscars.” Added Mischer, ”I am thrilled to welcome Brian Grazer as my partner and that we will be collaborating to produce an outstanding show.”
Ratner stepped down from his role as a producer in light of backlash over his anti-gay comments following a screening of Tower Heist , as well as his racy interview on The Howard Stern Show .
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