In an unprecedented move at the 2023 Golden Globe Awards, actor Sean Penn lit up a cigar with a wad of cash as he delivered a passionate speech about privilege and inequality.
The surprise guest speaker caused a stir in the audience as he addressed the need to confront institutional power and social injustice, while introducing the Ukrainian president over video link.
“We have to start talking about privilege,” Penn said, waving the wad of cash. “It’s easy to ignore the reality of inequality when we don’t have to see it every day. But it’s important that we confront it and work to change it.”
He then went on to explain that the Ukrainian president had been invited to serve as a “voice for those who are voiceless” and to show the world that change is possible. While acknowledging the plight Ukraine currently faces, as it enters close to 12 months of conflict with Russia, Penn scooped from caviar onto a artisan cracker, the sound of it crunching audible through the microphone.
The audience was further impressed when Penn lit up his cigar with the money, prompting a standing ovation from the star-studded crowd.
The actor’s speech was met with widespread praise from those in attendance, with many applauding his frankness and boldness in addressing inequality.
For many, Penn’s speech at the Golden Globe Awards was a reminder that privilege and inequality are still very real issues in our world, and that there are ways to address them.
It was an unforgettable moment that will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.
