Top 10 Most Controversial Golden Globes Moments
#10: Seth Rogen’s Inappropriate Joke “69th Golden Globe Awards” (2012)
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While co-presenting with Kate Beckinsale at the 2012 Golden Globes, Seth Rogen caught everyone in the room off guard. As they introduced the category of Actress in a Motion Picture Musical or Comedy, he announced that he had a...slight problem. The audience broke out into laughter, and Beckinsale could hardly contain her giggles. The TMI moment even got to Rogen at one point. Although it seemed like it was all just fun and games, the joke probably would not have landed as well in the age of "Me Too."
#9: Cate Blanchett’s Drunk Speech “71st Golden Globe Awards” (2014)
One of the best parts of watching the Golden Globes is seeing celebrities gain liquid courage. At the 2014 ceremony, Cate Blanchett was honored for her performance in the film "Blue Jasmine." During her acceptance speech, it was apparent that her good night had started long before her win. She began by admitting she had been enjoying some vodka. After that, she gave some shouts to a famous LA landmark and capped things off with a crass joke about Judy Garland. Blanchett later confirmed the rumors that she was intoxicated and hoped she didn't "do too many" regretful things.
#8: Emma Stone Gets Called Out “76th Golden Globe Awards” (2019)
During her co-hosting duties at the 2019 Globes, Sandra Oh was on fire! The "Killing Eve" star delivered quip after quip alongside Andy Samberg. In one of the most talked about moments of the night, Oh said a joke that called out nominee Emma Stone for her performance in "Aloha." Stone, who is white, portrayed a half-Asian character in the 2015 flick. At the end of the punchline, someone off-camera shouted out an apology. Stone later verified that it was her, elaborating that her response was spontaneous.
#7: Oliver Stone’s Speech “36th Golden Globes Awards” (1979)
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While accepting his award for Best Screenplay for "Midnight Express" in 1979, director Oliver Stone seized the opportunity to speak his mind. Protesting US drug policies, Stone gave a passionate speech that was not well received by the crowd. The audience turned on the filmmaker, responding with "boos." Host Chevy Chase stepped in and encouraged Stone to stop, to no avail. Eventually, security removed Stone from the stage. This wasn't the last time he addressed the issue publically. At the 1979 Oscars, Stone delivered a much shorter but equally passionate speech.
#6: Seth Meyers Calls Out Hollywood “75th Golden Globes Awards” (2018)
The "Me Too" movement was in full swing in 2018, and Hollywood was at its center. During the Golden Globes that year, host Seth Meyers faced the topic head on by calling attention to Kevin Spacey and Harvey Weinstein. Both men were facing legal cases as they had been accused of predatory behaviors and actions. Meyers tackled the subject with humor and made the disgraced Weinstein and Spacey the butt of the jokes. He also called out Woody Allen and POTUS Donald Trump. It was a fiery opening to the ceremony and reminded everyone in the room that Hollywood could no longer turn a blind eye.
#5: The Year Without the Globes “79th Golden Globe Awards” (2022)
In 2021, a report by the LA Times called out the Hollywood Foreign Press Association for its lack of diversity, and its former president, Philip Beck, for sending an email in which he called Black Lives Matter "racist." As a result, the HFPA received major backlash. The organization, which runs the Golden Globes, announced they would take steps to correct their wrongs and do better. Months before the awards show, NBC took a firm stance and stated they would not broadcast the Globes that year. The ceremony did go ahead but was not televised and did not include a red carpet. In 2023, the broadcast returned. Here's hoping the HFPA continues to make good on their promise.
#4: Ricky Gervais vs. Mel Gibson “73rd Golden Globe Awards” (2016)
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Ricky Gervais, known for his biting and sometimes harsh jokes, hosted the ceremony for the fourth time in 2016. Never one to shy away from controversy, Gervais knew exactly how to push Mel Gibson's buttons when he introduced the actor. Although the moment started off all right, with the two sharing a hug, things soon turned sour. Gervais jokingly grabbed his beer away from Gibson, who was once involved in an infamous DUI case. The "Braveheart" actor wasted no time and threw some shade back at the comedian. Of course, Gervais had the last word, and the cringey exchange wrapped up.
#3: Jack Nicholson’s Confession “60th Golden Globe Awards” (2003)
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As one of Hollywood's greatest movie stars of all time, Jack Nicholson has given countless acceptance speeches. When the legendary actor took to the Globes stage to accept his award for his performance in the dramedy "About Schmidt," he delivered a speech that was...well...memorable. He started by commenting on the presenter Nicole Kidman's face and joked about co-star Dermot Mulroney's hair. He capped off the moment by announcing to the entire ballroom of his peers and millions of viewers that he had taken a little something beforehand, which was probably the reason for his wild speech.
#2: Ricky Gervais Hosting Various
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Of all the Golden Globe hosts, Ricky Gervais is likely the most memorable. In 2010, 2011, 2012, 2016 and 2020, "The Office" alumni took to the podium. Year after year, Gervais, with a beer in hand, roasted Hollywood's biggest names. No one was safe from his wisecracks, and no topic was off limits. Celebs like Johnny Depp, Angelina Jolie and Bruce Willis were the punchlines to some of his most cutting jokes. However, it looks as if 2020 was Gervais's last hurrah. The comedian has publicly stated that he has no interest in returning to host, much to the relief of many celebrities. Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions. Sacha Baron Cohen's Speech, “64th Golden Globe Awards” (2007) The “Borat” Star Delivered Some Gross Out Humor Bette Midler’s Golden Globes Joke, “37th Golden Globe Awards” (1980) Midler Offered Up This Memorable Double Entendre Ewan McGregor Thanking His Ex & Girlfriend, “57th Golden Globe Awards” (2018) McGregor’s Former Wife Was None Too Pleased Over This Speech Jeremy Renner Staring at J.Lo, “72nd Golden Globes Awards” (2015) “The Avengers” Star’s Gaze Made Everyone Uncomfortable
#1: Isaac Mizrahi's Red Carpet Interviews “63rd Golden Globe Awards” (2006)
Red carpets are one of the most talked about parts of award season. In 2006, all eyes were on the Globes’ red carpet pre-show, and fashion designer Issac Mizrahi was front in center as one of the co-hosts. While chatting with a 21-year-old, Scarlett Johansson, Mizrahi grabbed her chest and asked her if he was wearing a "bra." The uncomfortable moment was captured live on air and sparked lots of controversy. Johansson went on record with the LA Times, saying it was in "poor taste." As for Mizrahi, he felt no need to apologize at the time. Years later, after much reflection, he admitted that his actions were wrong. Which golden moment do you think is the most controversial? Let us know in the comments!
