Ricky Gervais, the British comedian, actor, and writer, has had a career filled with iconic moments, but his all-time best is arguably his hosting of the Golden Globe Awards. Gervais first hosted the Golden Globes in 2010 and went on to host it five more times, making headlines each year for his fearless, no-holds-barred monologues.
The most talked-about of these was his 2020 Golden Globe monologue, which many consider his best moment. In it, Gervais took aim at Hollywood’s elite, delivering a scathing critique of the industry’s hypocrisy, self-importance, and moral posturing. His remarks were sharp and unfiltered, sparing no one in the room. He joked about everything from the controversies surrounding powerful figures like Jeffrey Epstein and Harvey Weinstein to the tech giants like Apple and Amazon, which he accused of being complicit in unethical practices despite their progressive messaging.
Gervais’s 2020 monologue was both shocking and hilarious, leaving the audience in a mix of laughter and discomfort. His directness and willingness to say what others wouldn’t made headlines worldwide, and clips of the monologue went viral on social media. The speech resonated with many viewers who appreciated his unapologetic style and his ability to puncture the bubble of Hollywood’s self-congratulation.
What makes this moment stand out as Gervais’s best is not just the content of his jokes but the cultural impact it had. His monologue sparked widespread debate about the role of celebrities in social and political discourse, the power dynamics in Hollywood, and the nature of comedy in an increasingly sensitive society. Some praised Gervais for his bravery and honesty, while others criticized him for being too harsh or insensitive. Regardless of the differing opinions, it’s undeniable that Gervais’s performance left a lasting impression.
This Golden Globe moment encapsulates Gervais’s unique brand of humor: irreverent, boundary-pushing, and thought-provoking. It cemented his reputation as a comedian who isn’t afraid to speak his mind, no matter the consequences. For fans of comedy and those who enjoy a good roast of the powerful, Gervais’s 2020 Golden Globe monologue remains one of his most memorable and significant achievements.