Jerrod Carmichael Slams the Golden Globes’ Diversity Issues During Opening Monologue
Jerrod Carmichael didn’t hold back during his opening monologue at the 2023 Golden Globe Awards, using the platform to address the awards show’s past diversity scandal and his own involvement in the ceremony. The comedian, who was hosting the prestigious event, made a pointed remark about the Golden Globes’ diversity issues and even revealed the hefty paycheck he was receiving for the job — a cool $500,000.
“I’m here because I’m Black,” Carmichael joked, addressing the room with a sharp critique of the Golden Globes’ history. His comments referenced the 2020 exposé by the Los Angeles Times that revealed the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) had zero Black members at the time. The controversy led to NBC’s decision not to air the Golden Globes in 2022, with many Hollywood figures and creatives boycotting the event.
Carmichael Calls Out the HFPA’s Past Racism
Carmichael then took the opportunity to remind the audience of the scandal’s origins. “The Golden Globe Awards did not air last year because the HFPA — which, I won’t say they were a racist organization, but they didn’t have a single Black member until George Floyd died, so do with that information what you will…” His remarks landed with a mix of humor and harsh truth, calling attention to the lack of diversity within the organization and its impact on the public perception of the awards show.
He continued, recounting how he got the job to host the Globes. “I was at home, drinking tea, when I got a phone call from my man Stephen Hill,” Carmichael shared. “He said, ‘Jerrod, I’m producing the 80th Golden Globes and it would be an honor if you would agree to be the host.’ I was like, ‘Whoa.’ One minute you’re making mint tea at home, and next you’re invited to be the Black face of an embattled white organization. Life comes at you fast!’”
Carmichael Reflects on the Paycheck
While Carmichael expressed his initial reservations about hosting, he did admit that the offer came with a significant incentive. “I’m only being asked to host this, I know, because I’m Black,” he confessed, only to be reassured by Hill that he was chosen for his talent. “You’re being asked to host this show because you’re talented. You’re being asked to host this show because you’re charming. You’re being asked to host this show because you’re one of the greatest comedians of a generation.”
However, Carmichael humorously undercut the praise by joking about Hill’s perspective, saying, “But Stephen’s Black, so what does he know? He’s only producing the show because he’s Black! They’re not gonna tell him why he’s here either!”
Carmichael’s friend Avery, whom he described as a stand-in for “every Black person in America,” also weighed in on the decision. After asking how much he was being paid, Carmichael revealed the $500,000 paycheck. Avery’s blunt response? “Boy, if you don’t put on a good suit and take the white people money!”
Carmichael’s Stand-Up Success and Impact
Jerrod Carmichael, known for his sharp wit and self-aware humor, has earned acclaim for his work as a stand-up comedian, actor, and director. In 2022, he won an Emmy for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Special for his groundbreaking special Rothaniel, which was hailed for its emotional and cutting content. Carmichael’s work has long pushed boundaries, and his commentary on the Golden Globes was no exception.
Before Rothaniel, Carmichael made waves with his dark comedy On the Count of Three in 2021, which he produced, directed, and starred in. He also garnered praise for his work on the HBO documentaries Home Videos (2019) and Sermon on the Mount (2019).
A Powerful Moment at the Golden Globes
Jerrod Carmichael’s hosting of the 2023 Golden Globes was memorable not just for his humor, but also for his unflinching approach to addressing real-world issues in a room full of Hollywood’s elite. His opening monologue set the tone for the night, mixing humor with pointed social commentary, and calling attention to important issues of race, diversity, and representation.
While Carmichael’s remarks about the Golden Globes’ diversity scandal were cutting, his humor ultimately offered a powerful statement about progress and accountability in the entertainment industry. And, of course, his hefty paycheck ensured that he was well-compensated for his time — but Carmichael made it clear that this wasn’t just about money; it was about using his platform to make a difference.