The Golden Globes was back this year. And there were plenty of memorable moments including Jerrod Carmichael’s fantastic opening monologue, which shed light on the recent history of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association and its lack of diversity. Carmichael also narrated his own experience in deciding whether or not he wanted to take on the opportunity. He didn’t hold back throughout the rest of the show either.
Carmichael made several controversial and conspiracy-related jokes throughout the night. Some of which are receiving backlash. However, that is not what stood out to us. The 2021 L.A. Times story revealed that the 87-person Hollywood Foreign Press Association had no Black members which had serious ramifications for the Golden Globes. So for the broadcast’s grand return on January 10, 2023, the HFPA hired comedian Jerrod Carmichael to emcee the proceedings. Carmichael came out the gate, stating, “I’m only being asked to host this, I know, because I’m Black,” he said, calling it a “moral, racial” dilemma. (He said a friend suggested that the $500,000 payment would make it worthwhile.)
It wasn’t Carmichael’s honesty about the HFPA that made this such an astounding monologue. We are now very aware of the lack of representation present within the association. For us, it was him opening up about his decision-making process to host. His speech highlighted what many of us go through when trying to figure out the balance between moral obligations as black people and our well-deserved success. His candor was refreshing, relatable, and inspiring. With today’s socioeconomic status, it can be hard to decipher whether or not you’re being used as a ‘pawn’ to a secret or not-so-secret agenda. Carmichael’s openness made this situation work in favor of his well-being and his people.
Jerrod Carmichael best known for his work as a stand-up comedian, including his 2022 HBO special “Rothaniel,” which earned him an Emmy for variety special writing. HBO also premiered his 2014 and 2017 specials “Love at the Store” and “8,” respectively. In 2021, he directed, produced, and starred in the comedy-drama film “On the Count of Three.”
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