What up, though? It’s Wednesday, and we are stepping out of our comfort zone on the Dear Black Gay Men Podcast to talk about a massive conversation taking over Black culture right now.

If you’ve been anywhere on the internet lately, you know that Kevin Hart recently produced and hosted his own Netflix roast. While roasts are notorious for crossing the line, comedian Tony Hinchcliffe dropped a highly controversial joke about George Floyd that left a bad taste in everyone’s mouth.

But the real issue isn’t just the joke—it’s how Kevin Hart chose to defend it during his recent appearance on The Breakfast Club.

The Illusion of Private Accountability

On The Breakfast Club, Kevin dug his heels in, arguing that it was a live production and explaining that he reached out to George Floyd’s family friend, Stephen Jackson, in private.

But here’s the problem: You give up the luxury of learning lessons in private the moment you put your foot on a public stage . As public figures and producers, when you invite people into your atmosphere, you have to take responsibility for the platform you provide. Tom Brady checked a comedian in real-time during his own roast when things went too far. If Kevin Hart had the audacity to check that energy on his stage, the culture wouldn’t be questioning his integrity right now.

Audiences, Audacity, and Siding with the Oppressor

When a comedian who actively aligns with MAGA rhetoric stands on a Black man’s marquee stage and mocks a tragic, violent death that traumatized the Black community, it’s not just “comedy”—it’s a choice.

“Kevin Hart is contributing to his own oppression when he cannot see that George Floyd’s life should be more relevant to him than Tony Hinchcliffe’s jokes.”

Too often, successful public figures would rather secure the validation of the oppressor and protect their “seat at the table” than stand 10 toes down for their own community. Audacity isn’t about how many zeros are in your bank account; it’s the belief that you can challenge power without being afraid your world will collapse.

Holding a Mirror Up to Ourselves

This isn’t just about pointing fingers at Netflix billionaires. If I am going to hold Kevin Hart accountable for what happens on his stage, I have to hold myself to that same standard.

Last week, we invited Florida Man Jay on the show. While he didn’t have ill intent, he used homo- and transphobic terms like “punk” and “tranny” that hurt our viewers—and I didn’t check him in the moment. It happened on my production, in my chairs, and I take full accountability for it. We have to do better as curators of safe spaces.

What Do You Think?

Is Kevin Hart officially canceled for you, or are you still buying tickets to his specials? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.

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