Kevin Hart statue holding LGBT+ pride flag appears near Oscars venue after homophobic tweets row

While Kevin Hart might not have been inside the iconic Dolby Theatre for the Oscars, he was definitely seen outside of it – but in the form of a golden Oscar statue holding a LGBT+ rainbow flag.

The life-sized sculpture, which popped up on Sunday just before the 91st Academy Awards were due to start, shows a replica of the comedian wearing a gold suit and holding a gay pride flag. Across the base of the structure, the words "Hollow Apology" were written.

The brains behind the statue seem to be Los Angeles-based street artists Plastic Jesus and Joshua “Ginger” Monro, who shared pictures of their work on Instagram, initially with a message of support for the LGBT+ community (it was later changed):

Over the past decades most countries have made great inroads fighting homophobia and hate, however the current divisive rhetoric seems to have taken us back to the 1970’s.

So much of the Entertainment industry output comes from LGBTQ Individuals we should be celebrating it and not creating a hateful environment.

The comedian stepped down from hosting this year's Oscars after a row of homophobic tweets from a decade ago came to light.

Instead of attending last night's awards ceremony, Hart instead posted a video of himself in the gym on Instagram, writing:

When you feel like u have nothing left is when you find a way to push & give more....Always grinding

As Hart punches the boxing bag ruthlessly, it seems like the comedian has many emotions he needs to let out.

HT Deadline

More: Kevin Hart refused to apologise for his homophobic tweets and people aren't impressed

More: Gay news anchor Don Lemon has a powerful message about homophobia for Kevin Hart