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At the MTV Movie & TV Awards, Jennifer Coolidge declared her support for the Writers Guild of America (WAG) currently on strike since last Tuesday. This became the first strike recorded by the association since 2007. They initiated the approach due to the non-compliance by Hollywood. The union, which is an umbrella to all writers across entertainment, failed to reach a content position on May 1. They were not content with what the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers proposed. Consequently, this has led to a shutdown of shows and film projects.
Thank YOU, @JENCOOLIDGE 🫶🍿🏆 Welcome to the Comedic Genius Award Club! #MTVAwards pic.twitter.com/CLH78d1bP3
— Movie & TV Awards (@MTVAwards) May 8, 2023
The Writers Guild Of America Strike Affected The MTV Awards Where Jennifer Coolidge Stood Her Ground
Days after the Writers Guild of America resumed the strike, it affected the production of shows. The “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” stopped production immediately. It took some time before “Saturday Night Live” joined in.
At the same time, the MTV Awards which was scheduled to be held on Sunday, last week, was affected. This annual event was supposed to have Drew Barrymore as its live host, addressing a live audience. In March, Barrymore was overjoyed to announce her gig on the MTV Awards.
But the talk show host and actress drew the curtains following the Writers Guild of America strike. Instead, she proposed support for the labor union. However, Barrymore assured her fans that she remained committed to hosting the award show next year.
Right after her exit, Bruce Gillmer, the MTV Awards executive producer made a statement. He admitted that the show would be a little different with no live audience. But the action was still set to happen as the organizers subscribed to a pre-taped ceremony.
The Comic’s MTV Awards Speech Is Unmatched
At the MTV Awards, Jennifer Coolidge won the MTV Comedic Genius Award. This was earned by her performance in the “White Lotus.” Her pre-taped speech hit the nail right on its head. The actress addressed the ongoing strike by the Writers Guild of America. She referenced her position as a proud SAG member, then added:
“I stand here before you tonight side-by-side with my sisters and brothers from the WGA that are fighting right now … fighting for the rights of artists everywhere.”
Even though the strike has affected shows, many entertainers have joined the WGA. Apart from Barrymore who pulled out as host, other celebrities informed the MTV Awards of their absence. But Barrymore’s solidarity did not cost her anything. In fact, that night, she won an award. Via a pre-recording, she accepted the award for best host for her “The Drew Barrymore” show.
Other winners at the award show included Adam Sandler, Tom Cruise, and Pedro Pascal. Cruise and. Pascal all showed their gratitude for the big win. “The Last of Us” star, Pascal also aired his commitment for the WGA.
Ultimately, Jennifer Coolidge gave one of the heart-melting WGA speeches at the MTV Awards. Meanwhile, she is supposed to have been busy with hosting the “SNL.” But the actress who was scheduled for the gig on May 20, might have nothing to worry about. For now, the strike continues to intensify with no clear negotiation on the table.