That inkling of hope that Kevin Hart would return to the Oscar stage this year has now been laid to rest.
Late last year the comedian was announced as host of the 2019 Academy Awards, taking over from Jimmy Kimmel who had taken on the duty for two consecutive years.
Hart’s euphoria was short-lived, however, as LGBTQ rights groups criticised his appointment due to previous homophobic remarks that he has made.
The furore caused the Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle actor to apologise and step down from the role which he had described as the gig of a lifetime.
Not all LGBTQ members were in favour of Hart’s departure, though, with Ellen DeGeneres telling him, “Whatever is going on on the internet, don’t pay attention to them. That’s a small group of people being very, very loud. We are a huge group of people who love you and want to see you host the Oscars.”
Ellen’s words prompted the 39-year-old to say he would reconsider.
Whilst on Good Morning America, Hart was asked if there was a chance that he would host this year.
“No, I’m not hosting the Oscars this year,” Hart replied without hesitation. “The Academy, they’re amazing people, the offer was made, it was received, I was excited this happened, it didn’t work out the way it should have. Right now from a time perspective, I don’t really have time.”
Oscar producers will now ask select A-listers to introduce the different categories.
