Just days after he was announced as the host of the 2019 Academy Awards, Kevin Hart has stepped down from the role.
The comedian announced the news on Twitter, saying that he "did not want to be a distraction" after a number of old tweets resurfaced.
Shortly before quitting as the host of next year's Oscars, Kevin criticised "internet trolls" for using their "energy" on finding comments from "2009, 2010".
In a candid Instagram video, the Jumanji star admitted that the Academy had asked him to apologise for the tweets or risk losing the presenting gig.
"I chose to pass, I passed on the apology," he told fans. "The reason why I've passed is that I've addressed it several times."
Hours later, Kevin confirmed that he had stepped down as host on Twitter and apologised to the LGBTQ+ community for his "insensitive words".
"I have made the choice to step down from hosting this year's Oscars... this is because I do not want to be a distraction on a night that should be celebrated by so many amazing talented artists," he wrote.
"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."
