Jimmy Kimmel, the seasoned late-night comedian, took center stage as the host of the 2024 Oscars, and he didn’t hold back in his opening monologue. Addressing the notable absence of Greta Gerwig, the acclaimed director of “Barbie,” from the nominee list, Kimmel unleashed his trademark humor, aiming squarely at the Academy voters.
Kimmel kicked off the evening with a nod to “Barbie,” showcasing a clip featuring Margot Robbie, the film’s star. As he stepped onto the stage, he wasted no time in poking fun at the audience’s response, joking about the “partial standing ovation” and the early start time of the show.
However, it was his pointed remarks about Gerwig’s snub that garnered attention. Amidst the applause for Gerwig’s contributions to “Barbie,” Kimmel turned the spotlight on the Academy voters, humorously reminding them of their role in the decision-making process. With a playful jab, he quipped, “You’re the ones who didn’t vote for her, by the way! Don’t act like you had nothing to do with this. You did this!”
In his characteristic style, Kimmel seamlessly blended humor with social commentary, highlighting the irony of Gerwig’s omission despite her undeniable impact on the film industry. He continued to shower praise on both Gerwig and Robbie, acknowledging their remarkable achievements in bringing “Barbie” to life on the big screen.
The absence of Gerwig and Robbie from the nominee list had raised eyebrows, given the widespread acclaim for “Barbie.” However, both artists remained gracious in their response to the nominations, expressing gratitude for the recognition received in other categories.
As Kimmel navigated the complexities of hosting Hollywood’s biggest night, he remained focused on delivering a memorable and entertaining show. With his trademark wit and charm, he kept the audience engaged while shining a light on the industry’s quirks and nuances.
Ultimately, Kimmel’s playful yet pointed remarks served as a reminder of the power of humor to address sensitive topics and provoke thought. As the evening unfolded, he continued to captivate viewers with his irreverent humor and infectious energy, solidifying his status as one of Hollywood’s most beloved hosts.
