Golden Globes controversy: What is the HFPA and why did NBC cancel the show?
THE GOLDEN GLOBES is one of Hollywood's biggest nights has been taking place since 1944.
NBC announced on Monday, May 10, 2021, that they will not air the 2022 Golden Globe Awards.
What is the HFPA?
The Hollywood Foreign Press Association was founded back in 1943 and conducts the annual Golden Globe Awards ceremony held every year.
The non-profit organization is made up of multiple journalists and photographers who report on the entertainment industry and the interests of the United States for media mostly outside the U.S.
HFPA consists of around 90 members from 55 countries.
The HFPA has been under fire for months over alleged diversity and ethical failings within its membership.
Did NBC cancel the Golden Globes?
NBC decided to pull the plug on streaming the award ceremony due to lack of diversity by the HFPA.
In a statement, NBC wrote: "We continue to believe that the HFPA is committed to meaningful reform.
"However, change of this magnitude takes time and work, and we feel strongly that the HFPA needs time to do it right.
"As such, NBC will not air the 2022 Golden Globes."
The decision comes after the LA Times published a story back in February of 2021 citing the lack of Black writers among the 87 Los Angeles-based journalists who work for foreign media outlets.
Taking place on Sunday, January 9, 2022, the Golden Globes will not be televised, nor will there be an audience or red carpet event.
Instead of being streamed, the Golden Globes winners of 2022 with be announced via the award ceremony website and social media profiles.
HFPA is hosting the ceremony at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles.
While NBC announced the reasoning behind them pulling the show from television, HFPA has stated the measurements are being taken in attempt to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
"Health and safety remain a top priority for the HFPA," they said in a statement.
"There will not be an audience on January 9th, and the following precautions are being taken for select members and grantees who will be in the room: Proof of vaccination and booster shot, along with a negative PCR test within 48 hours, is required for entry; All guests will be masked and socially distanced at all times while inside the ballroom; There will be no red carpet."
How did celebrities react to the news?
"Over the last eight months, the HFPA has completely overhauled their bylaws, implementing sweeping changes from top to bottom that address ethics and code of conduct, diversity, equity and inclusion, governance, membership and more," the HFPA continued in their statement.
"Recently, the HFPA admitted their largest and most diverse class to date of 21 new members, all of whom are first-time Golden Globe voters."
Many of Hollywood's finest have made statements in support of NBC's decision and even went on to comment on the atmosphere the HFPA has created over the years along with the lack of diversity.
Marvel's Avengers actress Scarlett Johansson published a statement that said: "As an actor promoting a film, one is expected to participate in awards season by attending press conferences as well as awards shows.
"In the past, this has often meant facing sexist questions and remarks by certain HFPA members that bordered on sexual harassment."
She continued: "It is the exact reason why I, for many years, refused to participate in their conferences."
"Unless there is necessary fundamental reform within the organization, I believe it is time that we take a step back from the HFPA and focus on the importance and strength of unity within our unions and the industry as a whole."
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Amy Poehler, the co-host for the 2021 awards show, said: "A lot of flashy garbage got nominated. But that happens, that’s, like, their thing. A number of Black actors and Black-led projects were overlooked."
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Fellow Avengers star Mark Ruffalo also commented in a statement stating: "As a recent winner of a Golden Globe, I cannot feel proud or happy about being a recipient of this award. It’s discouraging."
Actor Tom Cruise has also stepped in and shown his support against the aways by allegedly returning his awards back to the organization.