Actor and comedian Eddie Murphy will host the 84th annual Academy Awards show.

This will be the first time that the 50-year-old star has presented the show, due to take place at the Kodak Theatre in LA on February 26.

Murphy has said he is "enormously honoured" to have been offered the role.

Oscar producer Brett Ratner said: "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."

Co-producer Don Mischer added: "Eddie is a truly ground-breaking performer, whose amazingly diverse array of roles has won him a devoted audience of all ages.

"His quick wit and charisma will serve him very well as Oscar host."

Oscar nominations will be revealed on January 24.