Golden Globe host Ricky Gervais makes ‘famous gay Scientologist’ jibe

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Hosting the Golden Globes awards in California last night, Ricky Gervais delighted in making a series of risque jokes about famous faces in the audience.

In his opening jokes, the comedian noted that the case of I Love You, Philip Morris had not been nominated for an award.

He said: “Jim Carrey and Ewan McGregor – two heterosexual actors pretending to be gay, so the complete opposite of some famous Scientologists then.”

He added: “My lawyers helped me with the wording of that joke. They’re not here.”

Reports said that although he did not mention names, it was clear who he was referring to.

Gervais also took aim at other stars, to a mixed audience reception.

Introducing Robert Downey Jr, he listed his achievements and added: “But many of you in this room probably know him best from such facilities as the Betty Ford Clinic and Los Angeles County Jail.”

Downey Jr replied: “Aside from the fact that it’s been hugely mean-spirited, with mildly sinister undertones, I’d say the vibe of the show is pretty good so far, wouldn’t you?”

Gay-friendly comedy Glee and lesbian comedy-drama The Kids Are Alright both scooped awards.

Glee won Best Television Series – Comedy or Musical, while Chris Colfer and Jane Lynch won the male and female awards for Best Performance in a Series, Mini-Series, or Motion Picture Made for Television.

The Kids Are Alright won Best Motion Picture – Comedy or Musical and star Annette Bening won Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture – Comedy or Musical.