(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Eddie Murphy is in talks to host the 84th Academy Awards.

Deadline reports that Oscar producer Brett Ratner wants the comic star to take on hosting duties at next year's ceremony. Ratner must submit a name to Academy President Tom Sherak on Tuesday and it is believed he thinks Murphy is a suitable candidate for the role.

Ratner is said to have been discussing the project with Murphy, who is "expressing interest".

"Nobody knows movies better or is a bigger cinephile than Eddie. Not Brett. Not even Quentin Tarantino. Eddie can quote scenes from every single movie word for word," an insider told Deadline. "He can bring all that experience to hosting. Plus he has Saturday Night Live experience before a live crowd. And worldwide the biggest crossover comedians are Will Smith and Eddie Murphy."

Ratner and Murphy, 50, are said to have grown close after working together on crime comedy Tower Heist, which will be released in November.

However, there is no guarantee that Ratner's choice will be approved.

Fellow producer Don Mischer has revealed that several other big names have showed interest in hosting.

Last month, it was reported that Billy Crystal who has hosted the prestigious ceremony eight times could be called upon again. (C) Cover Media