Golden Globes Highlights

Growing up, I, like Jo Koy, was a fan of both the Oscars and the Golden Globes. Our shared Filipino background adds another layer to this experience. While Koy is a recognized American comedian, I remain an observer.

When his hosting role was announced, many Filipinos celebrated on social media. However, as is often the case with public figures, we tend to elevate them only to later criticize their missteps, especially when those mistakes reflect back on us as a community. This pattern is deeply ingrained in our historical context with former colonial powers.

At the Golden Globes, I caught Koy's opening monologue through a clip on social media and found it lacking in humor. The jokes, particularly the one targeting Barbie and another aimed at Taylor Swift, elicited a strong reaction from the audience, leading to a social media backlash against Koy.

This raises questions about our current celebrity culture and the public's sensitivity. Feeling compelled to share my thoughts, I initially posted a simple comment on Facebook: "jo koy. #cringe." However, my Twitter/X commentary expanded upon what I deemed as outdated and gender-biased jokes reminiscent of high school locker room humor, which undermined the achievements of women in Hollywood.

The success of Barbie, grossing $1.4 billion, and Taylor Swift's tour, which earned $1 billion, starkly contrasts with Jo Koy's Easter Sunday, which made only $13 million off a $17 million budget. A self-deprecating joke could have been a unifying moment rather than a divisive one.

Before the event concluded, Koy was already facing social media cancelation. The intensity of the backlash was surprising, particularly from fellow Filipinos. While the Swifties' reactions were notable, the source of such vitriol remains puzzling.

One Filipino celebrity described Koy's performance as a "wasted opportunity."

> "Hosts are always, always responsible for their scripts. Whether it’s your own or not, at the end of the day, it’s your face and career on the line. This was such a huge stage, and a wasted opportunity."

But what exactly constituted this ‘wasted opportunity’? Was it a failure of cultural representation or a broader commentary on the responsibilities that come with fame? It felt as if the weight of national pride rested heavily on Koy’s shoulders that night.

The critiques ranged from calling it "the most awkward ten minutes in the history of the Golden Globes" to passing judgment on Koy's entire body of work. Recently, I watched Ricky Gervais's award-winning Netflix special, Armageddon, which resonated with me. He pointed out that humor is subjective, and I would argue that the same goes for our emotional responses.

Should comedians be cautious about their material, or is it up to the audience to moderate their reactions?

> "It doesn’t mean you are a bad person or your humor isn’t sophisticated; what matters is that you can still laugh rather than be crying this early in 2024."

Rediscovering Humor

In my eagerness to advocate for women in Hollywood, I overlooked moments when such defense may not be warranted. A few days after the Golden Globes, Barbie director Greta Gerwig commented:

> "Well, he’s not wrong. She’s the first doll that was mass-produced with breasts, so he was right on. And you know, I think that so much of the project of the movie was unlikely because it is about a plastic doll. Barbie, by her very construction, has no character, no story; she’s there to be projected upon."

Gerwig elaborated on the insights from Barbie’s creator, emphasizing the desire for empowerment over traditional roles.

If Gerwig found no issue with Koy's joke, perhaps I shouldn’t either. After all, she directed a film that revitalized Hollywood during a challenging time, a sentiment echoed by Meryl Streep.

Koy's reference to Taylor Swift at the NFL drew criticism as it seemed to trivialize her accomplishments, particularly since Swift was named Time Magazine’s 2023 Person of the Year and recognized for her positive economic impact. Koy’s joke appeared to diminish her significance, portraying her as merely a lovestruck woman.

> “The big difference between the Golden Globes and the NFL? On the Golden Globes, we have fewer camera shots of Taylor Swift, I swear.” — JO KOY

Swift's well-publicized reaction, including her "death stare," sparked a frenzy among her fans, leading to further scrutiny of Koy's remarks.

Jo Koy's Journey

Megyn Kelly's comments about Koy were met with mixed responses, illustrating the complexities of celebrity status. Some theorized that Koy's position on the lower rungs of the celebrity ladder contributed to the backlash he faced.

Support for Koy came from fellow comedians like Whoopi Goldberg and Steve Martin, both acknowledging the challenges of hosting live events.

> “I don’t know whether it was the room. I don’t know whether the jokes. I didn’t get to see it. But I do know that he is as good as it gets when it comes to stand-up.” — WHOOPI GOLDBERG

> “Congratulations to Jo Koy, who took on the toughest gig in show business, hit, missed, was light on his feet, and now has twenty minutes of new material for his stand-up!” — STEVE MARTIN

Koy's candid admission about the last-minute nature of his preparation was refreshing.

> “I got the gig 10 days ago! You want a perfect monologue? Yo, shut up.”

This acknowledgment of his rookie mistake was commendable.

Finding Balance in Humor

I’ve long believed that humor carries deeper meanings; sometimes, a joke transcends its surface-level intent. The Golden Globes incident has reminded me of the importance of maintaining a sense of humor, even amidst criticism.

We can't control what makes us laugh, but reflection can reveal the deeper reasons behind our responses. It's crucial to consider our biases and strive for personal growth, rather than fixate on stereotypes.

Being an ally is not a full-time role, nor can one combat every form of inequality or bias.

The backlash against Koy is palpable, and some of it may stem from his status as an Asian American comedian. Would the reaction be the same if Koy were not of Asian descent or an A-lister?

Social media's tendency to vilify Koy for his hosting role at a historically controversial event is striking. The Golden Globes had to undergo significant changes, including restructuring its ownership, after facing criticism for its lack of diversity and accountability.

The past controversies surrounding the Hollywood Foreign Press, including Brendan Fraser's allegations against a former president, highlight systemic issues that persist within the industry.

The 81st Golden Globes aimed to mark a new chapter for a troubled organization, yet the public's eagerness to criticize Koy remains concerning.

Conclusion

Jo Koy made history as the first Asian American to host the Golden Globes and the first Filipino American to take on this role. Despite the challenges he faced, including a tight preparation window, he stepped up to the plate.

Was it poor judgment? Perhaps. It felt like he willingly entered a lion’s den, knowing the stakes.

The backlash following Swift's reaction raises complex questions about belonging and the treatment of those who challenge the status quo, especially in an industry with a history of inequality.

The comments surrounding a joke about The Color Purple illustrate the selective outrage present in these discussions.

Filipinos have a tendency to claim ownership over individuals who express pride in their heritage while quickly distancing themselves from those who falter.

Koy expressed hurt but can emerge stronger, gaining valuable material for his future performances. As he takes the stage again, he will undoubtedly be a more recognized figure.

As for me, I stand proud as a Filipino, unashamed of what transpired at the Golden Globes.

What are your thoughts?