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

Illustrated rainbow pride flag on a white background.

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. Theyā€™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 ā€“ 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 ā€“ Comedy or Musical and star Annette Bening won Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture ā€“ Comedy or Musical.