Comedian Kevin Hart has firmly declared that he will never host the Oscars, emphasizing that awards shows are no longer conducive to stand-up comedy. In an interview with Sky News in the U.K., Hart expressed his reservations about hosting gigs, describing them as “very cold” and asserting that they are not suitable for comedians.
Hart’s stance adds his name to the growing list of comedians who perceive awards shows as challenging environments for the craft. This comes shortly after Jo Koy faced criticism for his hosting stint at the Golden Globes, acknowledging the difficulty of the hosting role. Hart echoed similar sentiments, stating, “Those gigs aren’t good gigs for comics. It’s no shot to the Oscars, no shot to the Globes or anything else. Those just aren’t comedy-friendly environments anymore.”
Jo Koy, reacting to the criticisms he received, highlighted the unique challenges of hosting, especially for someone unfamiliar with the setting. Both Whoopi Goldberg and Steve Martin came to Jo Koy’s defense, recognizing the inherent challenges of hosting awards shows.
Whoopi Goldberg, co-host of The View, emphasized the difficulty of hosting and praised Jo Koy’s stand-up skills, acknowledging that the hosting role can be hit or miss. Steve Martin, known for his comedy and hosting experiences, humorously noted that he was still “throwing up” from his own hosting gig in 2010. He congratulated Jo Koy for tackling the “toughest gig in show business” and appreciated his ability to navigate the challenges.
Kevin Hart was originally set to host the Oscars in 2019 but stepped aside after past offensive tweets surfaced. Despite his withdrawal, David Letterman, recalling Hart’s previous appearances on his show, expressed his belief that Hart would be a fantastic host. Letterman recounted how Hart’s spontaneous humor and ability to make anything funny left a lasting impression on him.
In conclusion, Kevin Hart’s refusal to consider future Oscar hosting opportunities reflects a broader sentiment among comedians who find awards shows to be less conducive to their craft. As comedians navigate the unique challenges of hosting, the debate around the suitability of awards show environments for comedy continues. Despite the reluctance of some, hosting remains a coveted and scrutinized role in the entertainment industry.
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