Kevin Hart, the popular Hollywood comedic actor, recently made a controversial joke that did not sit well with many. During a press stop at “The Breakfast Club” to promote his limited series, “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist,” Hart found himself in hot water after a conversation veered into discussing historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
Executive producer Will Packer, a proud graduate of Florida A&M University, and the hosts, including Charlamagne tha God and DJ Envy, who attended HBCUs, engaged in a discussion about the significance of the HBCU experience. Hart, who did not attend college, made a comment that rubbed many the wrong way.
“You know what’s crazy? A lot of old n****s can’t let college go,” Hart said, insinuating that people cling onto their college experiences for far too long. This sparked a heated exchange, with Will Packer defending the value of HBCUs and challenging Hart’s perspective.
When guest cohost Loren Lorosa, a Delaware State University alumna, tried to explain the importance of HBCU culture, Hart dismissed her school as not being a legitimate HBCU. His comments ignited backlash from students and supporters online, with many expressing their displeasure with his remarks.
Despite the controversy, it’s important to note that Delaware State University holds a respectable position on the U.S. News & World Report’s list of the top HBCUs. The incident serves as a reminder of the sensitivity surrounding discussions about race, education, and cultural experiences.
In conclusion, Kevin Hart’s ill-advised joke about HBCUs may have missed the mark, but it has sparked important conversations about the value of historically Black institutions and the need for mutual respect and understanding in all interactions. It’s crucial for public figures to be mindful of their words and the impact they can have on different communities.