Ricky Gervais Turns Down Oscar Hosting Duties
As many of you are aware, we’re pretty big fans of British comedian Ricky Gervais here on Film Junk (wish I could say the same about his latest film Ghost Town, but I digress). When Gervais appeared at the Emmys earlier in the year, he did a funny little bit with Steve Carell where he demanded the return of his award from the previous year. Immediately afterward, the internet went wild with talk about Ricky Gervais being the perfect candidate to host this year’s Oscar ceremony. While it was certainly something I would love to see, I didn’t give it much thought because really, what are the odds he would even get asked in the first place? Well, as it turns out, much better than I originally thought!
Gervais tells the BBC that his U.S. agent was indeed approached about having him host the Academy Awards, but that he essentially turned it down because he was intimidated and felt that it would be far too scripted. “If it was a fun night and they said you could ad-lib, I’d do it because I really enjoy that.” He also speculated that Jerry Seinfeld turned down the same gig because “no one’s there to hear jokes, they’re there to see if they’ve won an Oscar”. I think he makes a good point; as a comedian, it’s an environment that’s not particularly conducive to laughs (especially considering Gervais’ own brand of awkward jokes). I also think the word “unscripted” would just make the attendees that much more uncomfortable. Although Gervais didn’t completely rule the whole thing out, at the moment it seems pretty unlikely. Too bad, but I can’t say I’m surprised. I guess we’re back to either Ellen or Billy Crystal! Who would you like to see host the Oscars?
Comments (5)
You know I’m not sure if it’s been tried, but what if instead of a host they just have a booming voice looming over pictures and sketches? I mean if we’re already there to see the winners and vignettes, then why go through a middleman?
If not I say go for Billy Crystal.
Posted by Michael Midnight on October 22nd, 2008This might sound crazy, but has Jay Leno ever been asked. He’s mainstream, popular and certainly earned it!
Posted by entertainmenttodayandbeyond on October 22nd, 2008I’d like Dave Chappelle and I’d hope he doesn’t wig out and bail…
Sean, you should fly to the U.K. and profess your love to Gervais like a man.
Lol.
Posted by Ryan M. on October 22nd, 2008They should get Russel Brand, that would fuck things up for sure.
Posted by Drew on October 23rd, 2008Stephen Colbert. He’s probably too big for that kind of thing now, probably. But it’s the only way I would watch the Oscars.
Posted by Matt on October 23rd, 2008Leave a Reply