Eddie Murphy has dropped out of hosting the Academy Awards in support of the producer, who was condemned for making a gay slur.

The comedian had been confirmed as the host of the 2012 ceremony last month and had been giving several interviews to hype up his appearance. The producer of the annual award ceremony Brett Ratner had resigned yesterday after he was criticised for making a gay slur publicly.

Ratner has worked closely with Eddie, most recently on the actor's new movie Tower Heist, so Eddie's decision to quit is apparently due to the fact that he will not be guided by his creative partner.

Eddie issued a statement confirming his resignation, saying: "First and foremost I want to say that I completely understand and support each party's decision with regard to a change of producer's 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 just starting to develop, but I'm sure that the new production team and host will do an equally great job."

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