MARK your calendars for January 7, 2024 as Filipino American stand-up comedian and actor Jo Koy is set to take center stage as the host of the highly anticipated 81st Golden Globe Awards.
“I’m super excited to announce that the Golden Globes [is] in a couple of weeks. And you’re probably wondering who the host is,” Jo Koy said, as he shared the big news on his Instagram account on Thursday, December 21.
“It’s me! Jo Koy! That’s right,” the Fil-Am comedian exclaimed. Following the announcement, Jo Koy said that he is looking forward to making his kababayans proud.
“I’ve stepped onto a lot of stages around the world in my career, but this one is going to be extra special. I’m so excited to be hosting the Golden Globes this year,” the 52-year-old said. “This is that moment where I get to make my Filipino family proud. Mahal Kita (Google it)!”
Just last month, Jo Koy was among the slew of iconic comedians featured in Netflix’s animated musical “Leo”. “Leo,” played and co-written by Adam Sandler, takes the audience on a captivating journey through the last years of Leo’s life, as seen through the perspective of a lizard on a quest for an extraordinary fifth-grade adventure.
Alongside big names in comedy like Bill Burr, Jason Alexander, Stephanie Hsu and Rob Schneider, who is also of Filipino descent, Jo Koy adds his comedic touch to the animated lizard world in the role of Coach Komura.
Jo Koy’s brand of comedy draws inspiration from growing up in a Filipino American household. He has continuously captivated audiences worldwide and filled arenas to capacity. The “Funny Is Funny World Tour” shattered sales records at venues globally. Before that, he delighted viewers with five top-rated stand-up specials on Comedy Central and Netflix, including his latest Netflix special, “Live From The Los Angeles Forum.”
In 2022, the Fil-Am comedian starred in the film “Easter Sunday,” produced by Universal Pictures. He has also appeared in Disney’s “Haunted Mansion” and lent his voice to the character Bendo in Netflix’s animated film “Monkey King.” He is set to voice the character of The Monkey King in the upcoming animated feature film “Tiger’s Apprentice,” which will premiere on Paramount+ on February 2, 2024.
Helen Hoehne, the president of the Golden Globes, said she is thrilled about Jo Koy hosting the prestigious ceremony mentioning that the comedian’s infectious energy and relatable humor will set the perfect tone for Hollywood’s award season. “We can’t wait to see what he has in store for the stars in the room and a global audience. We know Jo is bringing his A-game,” Hoehne shared.
The Golden Globes stands as the grandest award ceremony honoring the best in both film and television. This year’s ceremony will introduce two new accolades: the Best Stand-Up Comedian on Television and the Cinematic and Box Office Achievement.
“Barbie” dominates the nominations at the Globes, securing a staggering nine nods. The film is recognized in the Best Picture Musical or Comedy category, along with acting nominations for Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling. Additionally, three of its original songs have received well-deserved recognition. Following closely behind is Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer,” which has garnered eight nominations. The film is nominated in the Best Picture Drama category and has earned acting nominations for Cillian Murphy, Robert Downey Jr., and Emily Blunt.
The 81st Golden Globes will be aired live on CBS, for those watching on cable or broadcast. Additionally, the program will be streamed on Paramount+ and can be accessed through the CBS app, thanks to a new agreement between the network and the Golden Globes.
