Anti-gay tweets force comedian Kevin Hart to quit hosting 2019 Oscars
American comedian Kevin Hart has stepped down as the 2019 Oscars Awards host, just two day after his appointment.
The withdrawal follows his refusal to apologize for his tweets that were deemed to be anti-gay. T
Taking to his Instagram on Thursday night, Hart, who had expressed his excitement after he was announced the host, wrote; “I have made the choice to step down from hosting this year’s Oscar’s, this is because I do not want to be distraction on a night that should be celebrated by so many amazing talented artistes.”
The tweets, which have since been deleted, surfaced hours after the Academy confirmed that he would be hosting the 2019 Oscars slated for February 25 at the Dolby Theater, Los Angeles.
Before stepping down, the comedian revealed that the Academy had given him an ultimatum to apologize or they would seek a new host.
He chose not to apologize which he later did while announcing his decision to step down saying.
“I sincerely apologize 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,” said the comedian
In one of his 2010 stand up comedy appearance, the 39 year old was quoted saying his biggest fears was his son growing up and being gay.