Looks like the Academy Awards couldn't find a replacement fast enough for Kevin Hart, who stepped down from hosting the ceremony after some old homophobic tweets resurfaced online.
According to Variety, the Oscars will be trying out a new format, with producers set to delegate the role of emcee to a selection of A-listers who will introduce various segments. An insider also revealed that the broadcast will rely heavily on music thanks to the success of films such as A Star is Born.
The last time the evening had no host was during the 61st Academy Awards in March 1989, which began with a widely mocked musical number starring Rob Lowe and Snow White.
Hart, pressured by the academy to formally apologise, initially offered a non-apology but then later that day, the actor and comedian quit.
“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,” he wrote on Twitter. “I sincerely apologize to the LGBTQ community for my insensitive words from my past.”
