Everything You Need To Know About The Golden Globes 2022

Steven Spielberg’s revival of West Side Story, Jane Campion’s western drama The Power of the Dog and HBO series Succession were the major winners at a pared-down ceremony marking the 79th Golden Globes. As had been anticipated, it was a subdued event – with no red carpet, no stars in attendance and no televised broadcast. It comes after a year in which the annual ceremony, which has been a significant feature of the awards-season calendar since 1944, has come under intense scrutiny for its lack of diversity and a number of ethical disputes.

In early 2021, the Los Angeles Times released a report showing that, of the 87 members in the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (the awards’ voting body), none were Black. Allegations of discriminatory practices, as well as a “culture of corruption”, were also raised. A heavy backlash from the industry has followed: Tom Cruise returned his three Globe awards in protest, while NBC refused to televise the live program; in addition, a coalition of more than 100 publicity firms representing Hollywood talent pledged to stop working with the association until it addresses its systemic issues.

The HFPA responded last year with a pledge to increase membership by 50 per cent and, to date, has added 21 new members to its panel, including six Black journalists. It has also announced reforms to its bylaws, as well as introducing a new code of conduct.

While none of the 2022 nominees were at the ceremony, some acknowledged their wins on social media. Ariana DeBose, who was awarded Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture for her role in West Side Story, tweeted: “There is still work to be done but, when you’ve worked so hard on a project – infused with blood, sweat, tears and love – having the work seen and acknowledged is always going to be special. Thank you.”

Acting prizes also went to Will Smith (King Richard), Rachel Zegler (West Side Story), Nicole Kidman (Being The Ricardos), Kate Winslet (Mare of Easttown), Andrew Garfield (Tick Tick… Boom!) and MJ Rodriguez, who became the first transgender woman ever to win a Golden Globe, for her performance in Pose. She wrote on Instagram: “This is the door that is going to open the door for many more young talented individuals.”