Billy Crystal Steps in to Host Oscars 2012

Billy Crystal is replacing Eddie Murphy as host of the 2012 Academy Awards.

“Am doing the Oscars so the young woman in the pharmacy will stop asking my name when I pick up my prescriptions. Looking forward to the show,” the 63-year-old comedian tweeted on Thursday (November 10) – just one day after Eddie pulled out of the award show following Brett Ratner‘s resignation as producer.

The Academy officially confirmed the news, saying they’re “thrilled” to welcome Billy back to the Oscars stage. This will be Billy‘s ninth time hosting the Oscars.

Stepping in as producer is Brian Grazer, who has earned four Academy Award nominations and won for Best Picture in 2001 for A Beautiful Mind.