Ricky Gervais went viral in 2020 for his Golden Globes speech that brutally mocked the Hollywood elite. Getty Images
Ricky Gervais is no stranger to controversy. But the British comedian insists that comedy must remain rooted in free speech—even if that means someone gets offended.
In a candid interview with the Los Angeles Times, Gervais defended his use of offensive jokes and taboo subjects. The man behind the original The Office explained why he won’t let the fear of offending stop him from telling jokes.
"You Can’t Please Everyone"
Gervais believes it’s impossible to avoid offending someone with a joke. “There’s nothing you could say that someone, somewhere, won’t be offended by,” he said. “So you shouldn’t even try.”
He emphasized that his aim isn't to hurt people. He crafts his material with purpose and care. But being human means people will take things personally.
Taboos Are Meant to Be Challenged
The comedian explained his approach to edgy content. For Gervais, comedy is about taking the audience through uncomfortable territory, only to land on a laugh. “It’s like I take them by the hand through a scary forest, but it’s okay because they always laugh,” he said.
He uses controversial topics on purpose. Gervais wants people to think, reflect, and face the awkwardness. To him, comedy is not just entertainment—it’s an intellectual journey.
The Line Between Jokes and Politics
Gervais acknowledged that comics can go too far. But there's a clear difference between comedians and politicians. “Politicians say awful things, and they mean it. No one laughs. Comedians say things they don’t mean, everyone laughs—and they get the same treatment.”
He made it clear that laughter is the point. If no one’s laughing, then maybe the joke isn’t working. But intention matters.
That Infamous Golden Globes Speech of Ricky Gervais
Gervais turned heads in 2020 when he roasted Hollywood elite at the Golden Globes. He mocked their ties to Jeffrey Epstein and ridiculed their self-righteousness. The audience squirmed, but Gervais didn’t hold back.
"You’re in no position to lecture the public about anything," he told them. "Most of you spent less time in school than Greta Thunberg."
On “Fragile” Audiences
Gervais has often spoken against what he sees as an overly sensitive culture. In 2023, when debates erupted about updating Roald Dahl’s books to suit modern sensibilities, Gervais pushed back.
He posted a photo of himself deep in thought with a cheeky caption. “This is me pondering whether they'll change any of the words I've used in my work after I'm dead,” he wrote. Then, he listed a string of expletives from his past material.
Offense Isn’t the End Goal—But It’s Part of the Journey
For Gervais, comedy must be fearless. It's not about cruelty. It's about pushing boundaries, encouraging thought, and above all—making people laugh. Even if that means ruffling a few feathers along the way.
