Kevin Hart Steps Down As 2019 Oscars Host Amid Backlash Over Anti-Gay Tweets
by Site Manager
Update: Kevin Hart tweeted late Thursday (December 6) that he would be stepping down as the Oscars host after old homophobic tweets of his had resurfaced.
After comedian was named earlier this week as host of the 2019 Academy Awards, many expressed outrage due to Hart’s history of derogatory jokes about the LGBTQ community on social media.
Hart said in an Instagram video that the tweets were from “eight years ago,” but did not apologize. “I’m almost 40 years old. If you don’t believe that people change, grow, evolve? I don’t know what to tell you,” he mentioned.
I’m sorry that I hurt people.. I am evolving and want to continue to do so. My goal is to bring people together not tear us apart. Much love & appreciation to the Academy. I hope we can meet again.
— Kevin Hart (@KevinHart4real) December 7, 2018
I have made the choice to step down from hosting this year’s Oscar’s….this is because I do not want to be a distraction on a night that should be celebrated by so many amazing talented artists. I sincerely apologize to the LGBTQ community for my insensitive words from my past.
— Kevin Hart (@KevinHart4real) December 7, 2018
Original: Kevin Hart is taking on another exciting task. The comedian will host the 2019 Oscars, he announced on his Instagram account Tuesday.
“For years, I have been asked if I would ever Host the Oscars and my answer was always the same…I said that it would be the opportunity of a lifetime for me as a comedian and that it will happen when it’s supposed(d) to,” he said.
The 39-year-old actor posted a photo of the iconic Oscar statue along with the announcement and expressed his excitement for achieving a longtime dream.
“To be able to join the legendary list of host(s) that have graced that stage is unbelievable. I know my mom is smiling from ear to ear right now,” he said. “I will be sure to make this years Oscars a special one.”
Hart also tweeted his Instagram post and The Academy retweeted him with a warm welcome.