Brett Ratner has stepped down from his role as a producer for the 2012 Oscars following his public use of a derogatory term.
“While this decision pains me, it would be even more detrimental if my involvement with the show distracted from the Academy and the noble ideals it upholds,” he expressed in a public letter.
His resignation came after he used the term “fags” during a Q&A session last week.
In a statement, Academy president Tom Sherak remarked that Ratner is “a good person,” despite having made “unacceptable” comments.
“Words carry weight, and they come with consequences,” he added.
“We all aspire to use this as an opportunity to highlight the harm brought forth by careless and insensitive comments, no matter the intention.”
Ratner, known for films such as Rush Hour and Red Dragon, was appointed as a co-producer for the 2012 Academy Awards in August.
One of his initial actions was to select Eddie Murphy, the star of his latest film Tower Heist, as its presenter.
During a discussion about Tower Heist at a Los Angeles cinema last week, Ratner made what he later described as “hurtful and stupid” remarks.
When questioned about his working style, he stated: “Rehearsal is for fags” – a derogatory term aimed at gay men.
“The truth is, everyone who knows me understands that I harbor no prejudiced feelings,” the director asserted in an initial statement.
“However, as a storyteller, I should have exercised greater care regarding the significance of language and my word choices.”
He later followed up with an “open letter to the entertainment industry,” where he apologized “publicly and unreservedly… to everyone I’ve hurt and offended.”
US TV producer Don Mischer will continue as producer for the 84th Academy Awards, taking place in Los Angeles on February 26.
