Eddie Murphy has been picked to host the Academy Awards for the first time in his career.<br/> The announcement makes Oscar organizers appear as if they are aiming for laughs in 2012, after this year's performance by co-hosts Anne Hathaway and James Franco fell flat with critics and many viewers.<br/> Murphy has been nominated for an Oscar in the past - he earned a nod for his supporting role in 2006's "Dreamgirls."<br/> He can next be seen in the comedic film "Tower Heist," about two guys determined to rob 20 million dollars from one of New York's most protected - and hated - men. It hits theaters on November 04.<br/> The Oscars will be held on February 26.<br/> Lindsay Claiborn, Reuters.
