US network NBC will not air the Golden Globes in 2022, following criticism over a lack of diversity in the group that organises the awards.
The Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA), which oversees the TV and film prizes, has faced a Hollywood backlash after it emerged in February that none of its members are black.
The association’s ethics have also been questioned over alleged discriminatory practices, including apparently accepting inappropriate “freebies” following a Los Angeles Times investigation.
The awards have come in for criticism over its lack of diversity in recent months
And now, NBC, the broadcast partner, has decided not to air next year’s ceremony.
It said in a statement: “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.
“Assuming the organisation executes on its plan, we are hopeful we will be in a position to air the show in January 2023.”
As well as losing its broadcast partner, Tom Cruise has returned his three Golden Globes in protest against the HFPA.
Cruise won the best actor award for Born on the Fourth of July in 1993, the best actor prize for Jerry Maguire in 1997 and the best supporting actor statuette in 2000 for Magnolia.
Tina Fey and Amy Poehler hosted this year’s virtual ceremony Pic: NBC
Also, Scarlett Johansson said she had been subjected to “sexist questions and remarks by certain HFPA members that bordered on sexual harassment”.
Netflix and Amazon, two of the biggest players in Hollywood, previously said they would not work with the HFPA until it introduced more meaningful reform.
WarnerMedia, which owns HBO and Warner Bros, also said it would not work with the association.
The association had promised to address its diversity problem by admitting more black members.
Tom Cruise has won three Golden Globes but has returned them in protest
The 2021 ceremony took place on 28 February, with the HFPA apologising during the show and promising reform.
The association announced its plans for reform last week, which included increasing its membership by 50% and hiring diverse advisers.
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The HFPA has retained US law firm Ropes & Gray to help implement the plan, with President Ali Sar saying the plans “reaffirms our commitment to change”.
However, the proposals were widely criticised.
Time’s Up, founded in the wake of the Harvey Weinstein scandal, said the plans fell short of what was required.
Scarlett Johansson, pictured here in the 2020 Golden Globes ceremony, has also criticised the Hollywood Foreign Press Association
Netflix chief executive Ted Sarandos said the streaming giant’s relationship with the HFPA was on hold “until more meaningful changes are made”.
The HFPA is an organisation of an estimated 90 non-US journalists based in southern California.
HFPA has been contacted for comment.
