Billy Crystal to Step in as 2012 Oscars Host!

Following today's announcement that Brian Grazer wil be replacing former show producer Brett Ratner for the 2012 Academy Awards, it has just been announced that Broadway veteran Billy Crystal will take over as host. Crystal hosted the Academy Awards broadcast in 1990-1993, 1997, 1998, 2000, and 2004; and he reportedly turned down hosting the 2006 ceremony to concentrate on his one-man show, 700 Sundays. His eight times as the M.C. is second only to Bob Hope's 18 in most ceremonies hosted.

Crystal won the 2005 Tony Award for Best Special Theatrical Event for 700 Sundays, a two-act, one-man play, which he conceived and wrote about his parents and his childhood growing up on Long Island.

Earlier this week, Brett Ratner had resigned his role as producer for the upcoming 84th Academy Awards show because of recently-made offensive remarks, including a gay slur during a Q & A press session where he was promoting his new film, 'Tower Heist'. The director apologized for his comments after a video of his appearance was posted on NY Magazine.

Yesterday, comedian and 'Tower Heist' star Eddie Murphy, who was set to host this year's award's show, dropped out of his post after Ratner had handed in his resignation.

Brian Grazer has won a 'Best Picture' Academy Award in 2001 for the film 'A Beautiful Mind'. He was also nominated for Apollo 13 and Frost/Nixon.

Photo Credit: Walter McBride/WM Photos