Film director Brett Ratner has resigned as producer of the next Oscars telecast, set for February, after making a homophobic remark, according to a GLAAD press release.
In an open letter he stated, "I've gotten a well-deserved earful from many of the people I admire most in this industry expressing their outrage and disappointment over the hurtful and stupid things I said in a number of recent media appearances. To them, and to everyone I've hurt and offended, I'd like to apologize publicly and unreservedly.
"As difficult as the last few days have been for me, they cannot compare to the experience of any young man or woman who has been the target of offensive slurs or derogatory comments. And they pale in comparison to what any gay, lesbian, or transgender individual must deal with as they confront the many inequalities that continue to plague our world.
"As a first step, I called Tom Sherak this morning and resigned as a producer of the 84th Academy Awards telecast. Being asked to help put on the Oscar show was the proudest moment of my career. But as painful as this may be for me, it would be worse if my association with the show were to be a distraction from the Academy and the high ideals it represents."
Ratner initially got into hot water after saying "rehearsal is for fags" during a screening of his movie, Tower Heist. The film stars Eddie Murphy, Ben Stiller, Gabourey Sidibe and Tea Leoni, among others.
Now, Murphy has exited as host of the Oscars. According to EW.com, he gave no clear reasons for his departure, saying, "I was truly looking forward to being a part of the show that our production team and writers were just starting to develop, but I'm sure that the new production team and host will do an equally great job."
GLAAD and Ratner are working to hold public discussions featuring entertainment leaders about promoting LGBT people and stories fairly and accurately.
Academy Award winner Brian Glazer has stepped into Ratner's role as producer of the Oscar show, joining Don Mischer, Deadline.com reported. Glazer won an Oscar for A Beautiful Mind in 2001.
Billy Crystal will replace Murphy as host, according to the Chicago Tribune. At 63, Crystal would be the oldest host since Bob Hope in 1978.
The Oscars will air Feb. 26, 2012.