In a culture where political correctness rules the day, comedians walk a fine line between respecting their craft and becoming the next target for the PC police. Most comedians, anyway. Ricky Gervais doesn’t even seem to see that line, as evidenced by his performance last night at the Golden Globes. He pulled every punch line, with nothing (and no one) too precious for a jab. Here, his 10 best zingers. Too funny or too much? Let us know in the comments.
On Spotlight
"The Catholic church are furious about the film, as it exposes the fact that 5 percent of all their priests have repeatedly molested children and been allowed to continue to work without punishment. Roman Polanski called it the best date movie ever."
Introducing Matt Damon
"He's the only person Ben Affleck hasn't been unfaithful to. Please welcome Matt Damon."
The Requisite Trump Joke
"Eva Longoria and America Ferrera are not only beautiful and talented actresses, they are also 2 people whom your future president, Donald Trump, can't wait to deport."
Introducing His Old Pal Mel
"A few years ago on this show I made a joke about Mel Gibson getting a bit drunk and saying a few unsavory things. We've all done it. I wasn't judging him, but now I find myself in the awkward position of having to introduce him again. I blame NBC for this terrible situation. Mel blames … we know who Mel blames."
An Obligatory Network Dig
“It's right that NBC should host this awards show. They're the only network that's truly fair and impartial, and that's because they're the only network with zero nominations. So … nothing in it for 'em tonight. They don't care, obviously."
On Jennifer Lawrence's Wage Equality Work
"Jennifer Lawrence made the news when she demanded equal pay for women in Hollywood. She received overwhelming support from people everywhere. There were marches on the street with nurses and factory workers saying, 'How the hell can a 25-year-old live on $52 million?!'"
Regarding All-Female Remakes Like Ghostbusters
"This is brilliant for the studios because they get guaranteed box-office results and they don't have to spend that much money on the cast."
On Sean Penn's Meeting with El Chapo
"Shhh! Shut up, you disgusting, pill-popping, sexual deviant scum. I want to do this monologue and then go into hiding. Not even Sean Penn will find me. Snitch."
On Charlie Sheen, Of Course
"Joy and Trainwreck: They're not Charlie Sheen's 2 favorite hookers—they're our next 2 presenters, Amy Schumer and Jennifer Lawrence."
And Finally, A General Dig At The Globes
"One Hollywood publication said that me hosting would mean that some stars would stay away, for fear of being made fun of. As if film stars would stay away from the chance of winning a Golden Globe. Particularly if their film company has already paid for it."
