Chris Rock can be crossed of the list of potential 2019 Academy Awards hosts.
The comedian denied any interest in the now-dreaded Oscar hosting gig on Monday night at the New York Film Critics Circle Awards dinner in Manhattan.
“If it was five years ago, I could say something really offensive and funny right now, but I can’t do that anymore, so…heyyyy!” Rock cracked, as he took the platform at the NYFCC Awards where he was on hand to present director Bo Burnham the award for best first film for “Eighth Grade.”
Proceeding to do some extemporaneous standup of sorts, Rock looked into the audience at Steve Martin — who was at the award show to introduce the best supporting actor award to Richard E. Grant for “Can You Ever Forgive Me?” — and raised the extremely topical subject of hosting the Oscars.
“Steve Martin is here. You should host the Oscars. You’re the best,” Rock said. “Steve Martin should host the Oscars! Because I’m not doing it, goddammit! You’re not getting me.”
Rock’s comments come amidst the continuously creating Kevin Hart saga, as the Academy’s search for an Oscars host continues.
Rock has hosted the Oscars twice — first in 2005 and, most recently, in 2016.
Rock was one of numerous huge names at the Monday night dinner, held every year by the NYFCC. Martin Scorsese presented “First Reformed” director Paul Schrader with the best screenplay grant; Gayle King presented Regina King, who won best supporting actress for “If Beale Street Could Talk,” fresh off of her Golden Globe win on Sunday night; Andrew Rannells introduced “Support the Girls” star Regina Hall with the lead actress award; and Naomi Watts conveyed Alfonso Cuarón best cinematography, one of three awards “Roma” succeeded at the occasion, including best film.