In a recent interview on Bravo’s Watch What Happens Live, Kevin Hart firmly stated that hosting the Oscars is “not going to happen.” The 44-year-old comedian addressed the idea when the host, Andy Cohen, expressed his readiness for Hart to host the Academy Awards again. Hart’s decision is rooted in the belief that there is no upside for him at this point.
Hart was initially announced as the host for the 91st Oscar ceremony in 2018. However, he stepped down from the role following controversy over past homophobic comments on social media. The Academy then opted for a hostless ceremony in 2019.
During the interview, Cohen mentioned the gig being labeled as a “thankless job,” considering the history of comedians who have hosted the Oscars. Hart acknowledged the significance of the Oscars stage but emphasized that he is beyond the point where hosting the ceremony would provide any substantial benefits for his career.
In a subsequent interview with Sky News, Hart elaborated on his decision, stating that awards ceremonies like the Oscars and the Golden Globes are not conducive to comedy. He believes that those environments have become less friendly for comedians, and the days of it being a room suitable for comics are over.
Hart, known for his successful movies, comedy tours, and previous hosting roles at awards shows like the BET Awards and MTV Video Music Awards, clarified that he doesn’t need the Oscars at this point in his career.
This announcement comes ahead of Hart receiving the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor on March 24. The comedian expressed that he views the Oscars and similar gigs as not being comedy-friendly environments anymore.