Comedian Jerrod Carmichael Tackles Racism At Golden Globes

The 80th Golden Globe awards ceremony was marked by a powerful, jaw-dropping, and hilarious opening monologue from its host, Jerrod Carmichael.

The comedian used his platform to address the recent racism scandal that plagued the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, which runs the Golden Globe awards.

Carmichael, 35, opened his monologue on Tuesday night with the statement, “I’ll tell you why I’m here. I’m here because I’m Black,” a bold and unapologetic statement that set the tone for the rest of the night.

“This show, the Golden Globe Awards, did not air last year because the Hollywood Foreign Press Association — which I won’t say 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.”

He jokingly recalled how he got the gig and how much it supposedly paid.

“One minute you’re making mint tea at home, the next you’re invited to be the Black face of the embattled White organization. Life really comes extra fast, you know?”

“I did what I do when I have a moral, racial dilemma. I call the homegirl Avery, who, for the sake of this monologue, represents every Black person in America…And she was like, ‘Well, how much are they paying you?… and I said, ‘$500,000.’ And she said, ‘Boy if you don’t put on a good suit and take the white people’s money.’ “

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Of course, social media had to chime in with reactions from the event, many congratulating Carmichael for poking fun and disrupting the peace.

Jokes aside, it is clear that Carmichael’s monologue at the Golden Globe Awards was a significant moment in the ongoing conversation about racism, representation and inclusivity in the entertainment industry.