Over the last few years, award shows such as the Golden Globes and the Oscars have been grounds for important political statements. From Me Too & Time’s Up, to a push for more diversity and POC in the film industry, to driving environmental action— this year was no exception. With change happening slowly but surely, it is worth noting that amongst the stunning designer dresses, suits (Billy Porter, not to be outdone) and statement beauty looks we are seeing celebrities using their voices for causes close to their hearts.
See our round-up of the most important moments from the 2020 Golden Globe Awards.
1/ Awkwafina makes history as the first woman of Asian descent to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy
After making a mainstream name for herself with roles in Oceans 8 and Crazy Rich Asians, Awkwafina has now made history as the first woman of Asian descent to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, for her role in The Farewell. This comes off the back of Constance Wu’s nomination for Crazy Rich Asians, as well as Sandra Oh’s Golden Globe win as Lead Actress in a TV Drama in Killing Eve last year….all we can say is, it’s about time.
2/ Russell Crowe uses his acceptance speech to bring attention to the immediate need for climate action
While environmental messaging is not new in the realm of awards shows (thankyou Leonardo DiCaprio), this particular speech held more clout for those watching from Australia, after suffering and continuing to suffer through months of horrific bushfires. While he didn’t attend the award ceremony, as he instead remains in Australia to protect his home and family from the bushfires, Russell Crowe sent a timely and powerful message to be read in his absence. In accepting the award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television for his role in, Jennifer Aniston read on behalf of Russell Crowe.
“Make no mistake, the tragedy unfolding in Australia is climate change based. We need to act based on science, move our global workforce to renewable energy and respect our planet for the unique and amazing place it is. That way, we all have a future. Thankyou.”
3/ Michelle Williams implores people to vote pro-choice
Only a week after announcing her pregnancy, Williams won for Actress In A Mini-series or Motion Picture for TV as Gwen Verdon in Fosse/Verdon and gave a powerful speech that highlighted the importance of a woman’s right to choose.
“…I’m also grateful to have lived in a moment in our society where choice exists, because as women and as girls, things can happen to our bodies that are not our choice. I’ve tried my very best to live a life of my own making….And I wouldn’t have been able to do this without employing a woman’s right to choose. To choose when to have my children and with whom…So women from 18 to 118, please when it’s time to vote, please do so in your own self-interest. It’s what men have been doing for years, which is why the world looks so much like them. Don’t forget, we are the largest voting body in this country. Let’s make it look more like us.”
If this is was only the beginning of awards season, we can’t wait for more to come.