Several personalities defended Jo Koy after earning backlash
JO KOY – The Filipino-American comedian has been defended by various personalities after facing backlash for his playful joke about multi-Grammy award-winning singer Taylor Swift during the 2024 Golden Globe Awards on January 7.
“The big difference between the Golden Globes and the NFL? At the Golden Globes, we have fewer camera shots of Taylor Swift,” said Jo Koy. After this remark, the camera quickly focused on Taylor Swift, capturing her seemingly unimpressed reaction while sipping her drink. “I’m sorry about that,” the comedian apologized upon seeing Taylor’s facial expression.
As a result, Jo Koy received criticism from netizens, especially Swifties, the devoted fans and supporters of the singer-songwriter. Some showbiz and social media personalities in the Philippines, including Gretchen Ho and Rendon Labador, also expressed disappointment.
In his interview on Good Morning America, Jo Koy mentioned that he felt hurt by the criticism he received for his joke. He explained that the hosting position was different from his usual stand-up comedy style and that he followed what was written in the script.
Despite the criticisms, the comedian was defended by some personalities. Ogie Diaz said: “Pinanood ko, okay naman sa akin. Pipikunin ka lang talaga ng joke ni Jo Koy, pero dapat bang seryosohin eh joke nga yon?”
Senator Robin Padilla also defended the comedian, stating, “Walang lahi. Walang kulay. Pantay-pantay lang tayo sa mundong ito. Walang superior. Walang inferior. Lalo sa mga jokes.” He added, “Wag maging sensitibo ang mga puti sa sarili nilang style ng jokes. Bato-bato sa langit tamaan wag magalit. It’s a joke.”
Meanwhile, a Facebook post by “Joal Montiel Cabrera” supporting Jo Koy had gone viral. Cabrera emphasized that the comedian made just one mistake in one day, and many seem to have forgotten the honor he brought to the Philippines. Cabrera listed Jo Koy’s contributions to the Filipino community, promoting Filipino life and culture in his Netflix shows, and fighting against discrimination towards Filipinos.
