Hart was initially unveiled as the presenter of the iconic awards bash late last year, until a huge homophobia furore erupted – based on clips from his stand-up routines and numerous tweets with derogatory language from several years ago. He stepped down, leaving the Oscars officially host-less. But the row returned to prominence this week when he appeared on Ellen DeGeneres’ chatshow.
DeGeneres – herself a trailblazing, openly gay woman – has said she believes Hart should be given a second chance and forgiven, but this has been met with criticism online.
Hart said in the interview with her that has apologised for his past derogatory language multiple times in the past, but the likes of Variety and CNN’s Don Lemon have countered that, despite thorough investigation, there is no clear evidence of this.
It was reported that the Academy would be open to reinstating Hart as host if he indicated that he was interested – and remorseful.
But despite claims that the Academy were satisfied with Hart’s attempts to resolve the controversy, it seems he himself does not want to come back.
According to Deadline, the actor and comedian fears he would become a distraction from the actual ceremony.
And while the door is reportedly open for him to change his mind, it now seems very unlikely that Hart will be the presenter.
So what will happen instead?
The US industry publication suggests the ceremony will have multiple stars presenting awards – but no single main host.
Deadline claims that Hart did “reconsider” his involvement, but wants to end the “controversial narrative” that has plagued his hiring.
He is also said to be concerned about how much time would have to prepare if he was to be re-employed.
The 91st Academy Awards are slated to take place on February 24, 2019.
The nominations will be unveiled on Tuesday, January 22.
