Actor and comedian Kevin Hart has stepped down as host of the 2019 Academy Awards following fresh controversy stemming from a collection of derogatory tweets the comedian posted during 2009 and 2010.
“So, I just got a call from the Academy and that call basically said, ‘Kevin: apologize for your tweets of old or we’re going to have to move on and find another host,’” explained Hart in a statement via Instagram. “I’m talking about the tweets from 2009 and 2010.”
The comedian initially opted to “pass” on the apology, explaining he had already “addressed this several times.”
“The same energy that went into finding those old tweets could be the same energy put into finding the response to the questions that have been asked years after years, after years,” continued Hart. “We feed internet trolls and we reward them. I’m not going to do it, man.”
Hart has subsequently issued an apology via Twitter though is still stepping down from hosting duties, claiming he does not want to be a distraction.
“I sincerely apologize to the LGBTQ community for my insensitive words from my past,” wrote Hart.
Hart was confirmed as the 2019 Oscars host just days ago and was poised to be the latest in a long line of comedians to perform the gig.
The 91st annual Academy Awards ceremony is scheduled for February 24, 2019.
Luke is Games Editor at IGN’s Sydney office. You can find him on Twitter every few days @MrLukeReilly.