Kevin Hart makes first public appearance since car accident at People’s Choice Awards

Kevin Hart made his first public appearance since being injured in a September car accident at the People’s Choice Awards on Sunday.

The actor and comedian, 40, was on hand to receive the award for comedy movie star of 2019 at the Los Angeles awards show.

After a standing ovation, Hart referenced his car accident in his acceptance speech.

“First and foremost, thank God, because I definitely don’t have to be here,” he said.

“Being that I am, it makes me appreciate life even more. It makes me appreciate the things that really matter: family. I want to thank my wife, my kids, who really stepped up to the plate for me."

He also recognized his fans in his comments.

“I truly want to thank you guys for being there for at my difficult time,” he said.

Hart was a passenger in a car that lost control and crashed through wooden fencing on a highway in Malibu. He underwent emergency back surgery. A source told People magazine that Hart is still receiving physical therapy as part of his recovery.