Even though the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences stood behind Brett Ratner after he spewed an insensitive and controversial comment during his recent Q&A for the new Tower Heist, the director has stepped down from his role as producer of the upcoming Academy Awards. “I deeply regret my actions and I am determined to learn from this experience,” Ratner writes, after explaining that ” … as painful as this may be for [him], it would be worse if [his] association with the show were to be a distraction from the Academy and the high ideals it represents.” It’s unclear if Eddie Murphy will stay on board as host, but so far no changes have been announced. New York stage producer Scott Sanders may be Ratner’s replacement, according to Deadline. Will you still spend your dollars on the director’s popcorn flicks after this experience?