Two days ago, Kevin Hart was getting the ‘opportunity of a lifetime’ when he confirmed his role as host of the 91st Academy Awards in 2019.

But now, the comedian-actor has made the decision to withdraw from hosting the upcoming ceremony after a number of old homophobic tweets resurfaced.

Early this morning, Hart criticised internet trolls for trying to expose the tweets though this eventually caught the Academy’s attention as they asked him to apologise. However he soon posted his reply via Instagram.

“I chose to pass, I passed on the apology. The reason why I’ve passed is that I’ve addressed it several times.”

Hours later, he then confirmed that he had stepped down as host on Twitter and apologised to the LGBTQ+ community for his “insensitive words”.

“I have made the choice to step down from hosting this year’s Oscars… 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’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.”

This sudden news means that the Academy will now need to find ANOTHER replacement with the Oscars due to take place on Sunday 24th February 2019.