Photo: Forbes
The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences continues the hunt for a 2019 host after Kevin Hart’s departure.
The Academy—desperate for a plan B—is considering going without a host next year and opting for an ensemble of celebrities instead. A top comedy agent of the Academy told The Root, “They’re freaking out.”
The planners behind the award show were considering late-night hosts before viewership dropped in last year’s installment.
Kevin Hart gave up the role just one day after accepting it when past homophobic tweets from 2009 and 2010 resurfaced from his account. The Academy requested Hart apologize, but he explained on Instagram that he’s already addressed the tweets and won’t do it again. Hart said, “We’re feeding the Internet trolls, and we reward them. I’m not going to do it, man. I’m going to be me. I’m going to stand my ground.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/BrEjHFCFe83/
He later announced his resignation on Twitter, saying “I sincerely apologize to the LGBTQ community for my insensitive words from the past.”
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
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
The Academy will release the nominations for the Academy Awards on Tuesday, Jan. 22 while the show will air live on ABC at 8 p.m. Eastern on Sunday, Feb. 24.