Kevin Hart Announces He’s Your 2019 Oscars Host
The Academy of Motion Pictures and ABC haven’t confirmed it, but Kevin Hart has announced he’ll be hosting the 91st Academy Awards. Hart becomes the third African-American to host the show solo after Whoopi Goldberg and Chris Rock. Diana Ross, Richard Pryor and Sammy Davis, Jr. were part of multi-host telecasts in the 1970s
In an Instagram post, Hart said, “that this would be an opportunity of a lifetime and that it will happen when it’s supposed to.” He added, “I am blown away simply because this has been a goal on my list for a long time” and “my mom is smiling ear to ear now.”
Quote:
kevinhart4real
@kevinhart4real
For years I have been asked if I would ever Host the Oscars and my answer was always the same...I said that it would be the opportunity of a lifetime for me as a comedian and that it will happen when it’s suppose to. I am so happy to say that the day has finally come for me to host the Oscars. I am blown away simply because this has been a goal on my list for a long time....To be able to join the legendary list of host that have graced that stage is unbelievable. I know my mom is smiling from ear to ear right now. I want to thank my family/friends/fans for supporting me & riding with me all this time....I will be sure to make this years Oscars a special one. I appreciate the @TheAcademy for the opportunity ....now it’s time to rise to the occasion #Oscars
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The Academy has not commented officially on the announcement but did re-tweet Hart’s own tweet.
Hart follows two successive ceremonies hosted by ABC talent Jimmy Kimmel. Last year’s ceremony saw the telecast drop to its lowest ratings since 2007. Hart’s star power and fresh face may draw new viewers to the ceremony that may have box office hits such as “Black Panther” and “A Star is Born” in the running for Best Picture.
The 39-year-old actor and stand-up comedian recently starred opposite Tiffany Haddish in “Night School” and last year’s blockbuster “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle.” Hart will next be seen in “The Upside,” a 2017 film that was delayed due to the sale of The Weinstein Company earlier this year.
The 91st Academy Awards will take place on Sunday, Feb. 24 and will be broadcast live on ABC at 5 PM PT, 8 PM ET.
