After years of campaigning for the gig, Kevin Hart will host the 2019 Academy Awards.

Rumors first surfaced Tuesday afternoon that Hart was offered the hosting role. Hart later confirmed the reports that evening on Instagram, along with Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences President John Bailey.

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For years I have been asked if I would ever Host the Oscars and my answer was always the same…I said that it would be the opportunity of a lifetime for me as a comedian and that it will happen when it’s suppose to. I am so happy to say that the day has finally come for me to host the Oscars. I am blown away simply because this has been a goal on my list for a long time….To be able to join the legendary list of host that have graced that stage is unbelievable. I know my mom is smiling from ear to ear right now. I want to thank my family/friends/fans for supporting me & riding with me all this time….I will be sure to make this years Oscars a special one. I appreciate the @TheAcademy for the opportunity ….now it’s time to rise to the occasion #Oscars

A post shared by Kevin Hart (@kevinhart4real) on Dec 4, 2018 at 5:01pm PST

On why Hart was chosen to host, Bailey told Variety, “First of all, he’s a very kind of warm and loving and lovable person. He’s also wanted to do this for many years. He’s been very clear how he felt about it, and that’s very heartening to us.”

“I think Kevin will do a really good job. He’s funny. He’s hip. I think a lot of people really like him. Audiences have so many things to choose from today and to have someone who isn’t on television every minute…I thought Jimmy Kimmel did a great job the last two years, but you see him five nights a week,” said former Academy president Hawk Koch.

We’re hoping in tapping Hart as host, the Oscars decide to reflect diversity in their nominations and winners, and do not have a repeat of #OscarsSoWhite.

The Oscars will take place on February 27, 2019.

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