Tiffany Haddish was asked to host the Grammys pre-telecast Premiere Ceremony, but turned down the opportunity after the Recording Academy said she had to pay for her transportation, wardrobe, hair, makeup — everything.
They didn’t want to pay her to host, either.
via Variety:
“All of that would have to come out of my pocket,” she said, adding, “I don’t know if this might mean I might not get nominated ever again, but I think it’s disrespectful.”
Haddish is nominated for her second Grammy this year for best comedy album for Netflix’s “Black Mitzvah” following her first nom last year for spoken word for “The Last Black Unicorn.” The 63rd Grammys will take place Jan. 31, 2021.
Contacted by Variety, a rep for the Recording Academy noted that the Premiere Ceremony is not a CBS program and is hosted by the Academy — a not-for-profit organization — and that all hosts, presenters, and performers have traditionally performed gratis, including this year. The rep also noted that the situation would have no impact on any future nominations for Haddish.
“I was like, ‘The exposure is amazing but I think I have enough. I appreciate you guys asking,’” Haddish said. “And as much as I appreciate the honor of being nominated, that’s not okay.”
About 70 awards are handed out during the pre-telecast. Last year, Imogen Heap hosted the pre-show, which was streamed on Grammys.com and CBS.com.
“This is something that needs to be addressed,” Haddish said. “How many other people have they done that to? It’s like a guy asking you on a date but telling you that you have to pay for it.”
We stand with Tiffany in regards to this matter. As much money as the Recording Academy and CBS makes, they should’ve been able to give her a little something.
