Kevin Hart was initially booked to host the event
The Oscars ceremony will air without a celebrity host this year, it has been confirmed.
American comedian Kevin Hart was initially booked to host the event, but after homophobic tweets sent from his account two years ago resurfaced, he took the decision to step down.
“I have made the choice to step down from hosting this year’s Oscars,” wrote Hart, who as well as his stand-up work has recently starred in Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle and Night School.
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
“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 apologise to the LGBTQ community for my insensitive words from my past.
“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 and appreciation to the Academy. I hope we can meet again.”
Instead of replacing him, the Academy have decided to go ahead without a celebrity emcee for the first time in 30 years.
