After host Jerrod Carmichael made a joke about Whitney Houston’s death at the 2023 Golden Globes, the late singer’s estate is speaking out — and condemning the comments.“The Whitney Houston estate is disappointed in the joke and felt it was in poor taste,” Pat Houston — Whitney’s longtime manager and sister-in-law — told TMZ on Wednesday, January 11.During the awards show — which aired on Tuesday, January 10 — Carmichael, 35, mentioned the “Higher Love” musician after a commercial break.“Here we are, live, from the hotel that killed Whitney Houston, the Beverly Hilton,” the stand-up comedian said, referring to Whitney’s February 2012 death at the establishment.
An autopsy report later ruled the Grammy winner’s death an accidental drowning, noting that heart disease and “chronic” cocaine use were contributing factors.Whitney wasn’t the only reference the comedian made during the broadcast.
In addition to Carmichael’s controversial comments about the “I Will Always Love You” songstress, he took a shot at Tom Cruise and Scientologists.“Backstage, I found these three Golden Globe awards that Tom Cruise returned,” he said, holding three of the coveted trophies. “I’m just the host briefly, or whatever, but I have a pitch.
I think maybe we take these three things and exchange them for the safe return of Shelly Miscavige.”The Emmy winner’s joke — which referred to Scientology leader David Miscavige’s wife who has allegedly not been seen in public since August 2007 — was met with silence followed by some surprised cheers and laughs.Former Scientologist and outspoken critic of the organization Leah Remini, for her part, praised the quip.“Thank you, Jerrod Carmichael!
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