As the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences continues to search for a 2019 Oscars ceremony host, the organization can cross Chris Rock off the list.
The stand-up, who hosted the event in 2005 and 2016, shared at the New York Film Critics Circle Awards dinner Monday night that he has no desire to take the gig a third time and suggested a comedy legend do the honors, according to Variety.
“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 joked as he took the podium to present director Bo Burnham with the award for best first film for Eighth Grade.
At one point, Rock spotted Steve Martin in the audience and used the moment to encourage him to step up.
“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 after Today‘s report that Kevin Hart has confirmed for the second time that he will not be hosting the Academy Awards.
