major shortcomings
The Golden Globes is a marquee moment in cinema, one of the year’s most anticipated events, and this edition has pushed the conversation further. After a recent push that didn’t come from industry rejection, 2023 seemed like the ideal moment to turn the page on accusations of corruption, influence trading, and racism.
major shortcomings
Fans gathered at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California, to witness the glamour of Hollywood on full display as bright stars walked the red carpet. Yet the ceremony wasn’t only about show numbers; notable absences dominated headlines. Not everyone forgave the scandals surrounding the Golden Globes quickly, or so it seemed once some winners chose not to attend the ceremony and instead thanked attendees via social media. Names such as Zendaya, Amanda Seyfried, Cate Blanchett, and Kevin Costner appeared among those who accepted awards in various categories but skipped the in-person ceremony. Other big names, like Taylor Swift, Julia Roberts, and Lady Gaga, were also mentioned as significant losses among the nominees.
I am here because I am black
Before the Oscars, there were moments that stirred whispers among those at the Golden Globes. One such moment came from the host Jerrod Carmichael, who opened with a monologue addressing the criticism about his race within the Hollywood Foreign Press Association. The African-American comedian joked that his presence was proof there was no discrimination within the group: “I’m here because I’m black.”
Will Smith’s slap memory
Will Smith’s name kept surfacing in conversations about the awards season as a memory of past controversy lingered. The broadcast looked back at the era of Dolittle, The Nutty Professor, and Boomerang, noting lifetime achievements that echoed the public memory of a famous incident at the previous Oscars.
The night also included a playful moment where a speaker teased a few words during a humorous exchange with the audience. “There is a simple plan to reach success, prosperity, longevity, and peace of mind,” he quipped. “Three rules: pay your taxes, mind your own business, and keep Will Smith’s wife’s name out of your mouth.”
Angela Bassett’s phone slip
Angela Bassett, honored as Best Supporting Actress for her role in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, turned a stage moment into a memorable anecdote. Reportedly, a translator or translator’s device came into view with a phone in hand as she accepted the award. She offered a lighthearted apology, joking about messages on WhatsApp while attempting to keep the moment graceful on the stage.
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Golden Globes 2023 in Photos
EFE/EPA/CAROLINE BREHMAN
Another breakthrough moment occurred when Jennifer Coolidge announced the Best Supporting Actor in a television category. Before presenting to Tyler James Williams, a remark about Oscar predictions sparked a ripple of laughter, illustrating how a tiny misstep can become a memorable, luck-bringing moment.
Carmichael Stokes, Tom Cruise and Scientology
The host also waded into controversy with a joke about Tom Cruise, whose past protests against Globes organization and diversity criticisms led him to return three statuettes years earlier. Carmichael seized the moment, joking about the returns and offering a playful challenge to swap them for another well-known matter from Scientology lore. The joke landed with mixed reactions but drew applause and conversation alike.
The comedian carried three Golden Globes as props and quipped, “I found these returned trophies backstage. Perhaps they could be traded for the elusive Shelley Miscavige’s return,” prompting astonishment and laughter from the audience.
Shelly Miscavige is the wife of the organization’s leader, David Miscavige, associated with the Church of Scientology. In 2007, she disappeared from public view, though the organization later stated she was safe and living a private life away from the spotlight.
The best memes of the 2023 Golden Globes: from Jennifer Coolidge’s speech to Zendaya’s candy moment
Collin Farrell praises Ana de Armas
When Ana de Armas received her performance recognition for her work in Blonde, Colin Farrell paused his own moment to commend De Armas’ talent. He recalled watching Blonde and being deeply moved, admitting that the film had left a strong impression. De Armas smiled, and the room erupted with laughter at the spontaneous compliment. It reminded everyone that genuine praise can feel unexpectedly light and human in the midst of a formal ceremony.
Jennifer Coolidge’s on-stage humor
Another standout moment came as Coolidge thanked her peers for the Best Supporting Actress award for The White Lotus. Her playful line—about not going to the gym and finding meaning in the moment—led to a cascade of chuckles. She reflected on her dreams and how life has surprised her with opportunities and the warmth of neighbors now recognizing her success. The audience laughed along, sensing the sincerity beneath the humor.