Kevin Hart has withdrawn from hosting the Oscars due to past homophobic tweets

He was told to choose between apologising or withdrawing from the gig.

It was only two days ago that actor and comedian, Kevin Hart announced he would be hosting the 2019 Oscars, but in a shocking turn of events, the would-be host has chosen to resign. Five hours ago Kevin took to Instagram to tell his followers that the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences gave him an ultimatum: choose between apologising for homophobic tweets he made in the past or losing the job. The Night School actor said that the tweets were from nearly a decade ago and that he would not be apologising for them. He said:

"I chose to pass on the apology. The reason why I passed is because I've addressed this several times. I've said who I am now versus who I was then. I've done it. I'm not going to continue to go back and tap into the days of old when I've moved on and I'm in a completely different place in my life."

Kevin also took to Twitter to announce his decision and to apologise to the LGBT community.

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. I sincerely apologize to the LGBTQ community for my insensitive words from my past.

— Kevin Hart (@KevinHart4real) December 7, 2018

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.

— Kevin Hart (@KevinHart4real) December 7, 2018

Kevin had said that hosting the Oscars was the gig "of a lifetime" when he announced the news. The academy must now find a new host for the 91st Academy Awards in February. Considering the ratings were at an all-time low last year, they face a difficult challenge.