Evaluate Jo Koy based on delivery, not identity

In the world of comedy, even seasoned comedians find themselves grappling with challenging audiences where every punchline doesn’t necessarily land. Such was the case for Filipino-American stand-up comedian Jo Koy, who assumed the role of last-minute host for the 81st Golden Globe Awards. Pressed for time, the outcome fell short of expectations, particularly during his monologue.

Critics and viewers quickly voiced their disappointment, and Jo Koy himself acknowledged the rushed nature of his preparation. He attributed some of the criticism to his joke writers, shedding light on the challenging circumstances he faced between signing the contract and stepping onto the prestigious stage.

Following Jo Koy’s performance, a disconcerting sentiment surfaced within certain segments of the Filipino community, notably on X (formerly Twitter). One comment revealed a regrettable trend of gatekeeping Filipino identity, questioning Jo Koy’s authenticity and qualification as “part of our community.”

The assertion that Jo Koy—who is frequently recognized and often subject to criticism for his comedic portrayals of Filipino stereotypes—selectively embraces his Filipino heritage for financial gain prompts questions about the parameters defining Filipino identity. Swift disownment based on assumptions about his connection to his Filipino roots is disheartening. It reflects a tendency to judge cultural authenticity based on experiences, choices, and a single performance that fell short of expectations.

While Jo Koy’s attribution of his Golden Globes monologue shortcomings to his writers was unfortunate, the crux of the matter lies in the reception of his jokes rather than his race or citizenship. Questioning Jo Koy’s belonging to the Filipino community based on a single performance is an overreaction, as everyone, regardless of cultural background, is entitled to have a challenging day at work or an off night on stage.

The focus must return to the core matter—evaluating Jo Koy’s performance on its own merits. Dissecting the intricacies of the jokes, delivery, and overall stage presence allows for a more constructive discussion about the art of comedy without being sidetracked by a tangential and inconsistent critique of his cultural identity.

Why do we champion Filipino pride in moments of success but distance ourselves in times of criticism?

Ralph Revelar Sarza