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Oscar host Eddie Murphy, will he be more Crystal or Gervais?

By April MacIntyre Sep 6, 2011, 21:45 GMT

Eddie Murphy - Gibson Amphitheater - Universal City, CA. USA © Albert L. Ortega / PR Photos

All bets are on as star of "Raw", comic Eddie Murphy, is set to host the next Oscar telecast.

Murphy is an Academy nominated actor, comedian and father to six children.

The Academy confirmed Murphy's position in a press release.

The Oscar ceremony’s producer, Brett Ratner, selected Murphy to emcee following his work with him in the upcoming film "Tower Heist."

Says Ratner in a release: “Eddie is a comedic genius, one of the greatest and most influential live performers ever. With his love of movies, history of crafting unforgettable characters and his iconic performances — especially on stage — I know he will bring excitement, spontaneity and tremendous heart to the show Don and I want to produce in February.”

Just how far the comedy will get to go is what everyone is thinking. Will it be tongue-in-cheek like Billy Crystal? Or Golden Globes 'in your face' like Ricky Gervais?

One thing is for sure, it won't be narcoleptic like James Franco.

Murphy says, “I am enormously honored to join the great list of past Academy Award hosts from Hope and Carson to Crystal, Martin and Goldberg, among others. I’m looking forward to working with Brett and Don on creating a show that is enjoyable for both the fans at home and for the audience at the Kodak Theatre as we all come together to celebrate and recognize the great film contributions and collaborations from the past year.”