Eddie Murphy has resigned as host of the 2012 Oscar ceremony, due to be held in February.

His decision comes a day after the resignation of producer Brett Ratner, a friend of Murphy, who used a derogatory term in public.

Mr Ratner used the word "fags" during a question and answer session on his latest film Tower Heist.

Mr Ratner recruited Murphy to be the Oscars' next host when he was hired as producer of the 2012 awards ceremony.

The Rush Hour director has been replaced by Brian Grazer, the Oscar-winning producer of A Beautiful Mind - and frequent producing partner of director Ron Howard.

"Brian Grazer is a renowned filmmaker who over the past 25 years has produced a diverse and extraordinary body of work," said Academy President Tom Sherak.

"He will certainly bring his tremendous talent, creativity and relationships to the Oscars.'

No replacement has been announced for Murphy.

Source: Press Release