Steady Eddie

Hot favourite to host the 2012 Oscars is Eddie Murphy, a man with a rather patchy history of critical acclaim and awards recognition.   He is, after all, the man who was The Nutty Professor (plus sundry relatives) and the hapless Norbit, but the former Saturday Night Live star was Oscar nominated for his dramatic turn in Showgirls five years ago. So, with his ready wit and undeniable charisma as a performer, he  may be a better choice than recognised dramatic performers James Franco and Anne Hathaway who drew such flak for their efforts at this year's ceremony. At least the comedy should be deliberate.