Welcome Back to the Tough Times Era: A Flashback to a Challenging Time

Welcome back to the “Tough Times” era of awards season! Five years ago at the 2020 Golden Globes, comedian Ricky Gervais made headlines with his criticism of celebrity activism. He called out stars for their perceived hypocrisy and urged them not to make political speeches when accepting awards. This moment marked a shift in Hollywood, as the industry moved away from overt political statements following the 2016 election.

Fast forward to last night’s Golden Globes, where the tone was noticeably different. Unlike previous years, there was a distinct lack of political commentary from presenters and winners. Instead, there were subtle references to “difficult moments” and “tough times.” It seems that Hollywood has shifted away from the overt resistance seen in the mid-2010s.

In recent years, Hollywood has grappled with defining acceptable forms of advocacy. Controversies surrounding diversity initiatives and backlash against so-called “woke campaigns” have added complexity to the landscape. Despite ongoing challenges, many actors and creators are still navigating the ever-changing industry landscape.

As the industry grapples with how best to respond to the current political climate, last night’s Golden Globes reflected a sense of hesitation and uncertainty. In her opening monologue, host Nikki Glaser humorously pointed out the disconnect between Hollywood elites and the general public. The evening’s tone focused more on the importance of storytelling and overcoming hate in a timeless manner.

One of the evening’s standout moments came when actor Sebastian Stan accepted his award and acknowledged both the challenging projects he has been a part of. His remarks highlighted the tension between glamourous awards shows and the impactful work being done in Hollywood. While some may question how Hollywood can bridge the gap between art and activism in today’s world, last night’s event showcased a subtle shift in tone and approach.

As we look ahead to the future of awards season and Hollywood activism, it remains to be seen how the industry will navigate the evolving political landscape. Last night’s Golden Globes offered a glimpse into a more subdued and introspective Hollywood, one that is perhaps still searching for the best way to engage with the world around them.