Shonda Rhimes Reveals ‘Bridgerton’ Initially Lacked Support from Higher-Ups Until Its Success

Shonda Rhimes Reveals ‘Bridgerton’ Initially Lacked Support from Higher-Ups Until Its SuccessAt home insemination kit

In a recent discussion, Shonda Rhimes shared that the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) was hesitant to promote the Black-led series ‘Bridgerton’ until it became a massive success. The HFPA, known for awarding the Golden Globes, has faced criticism for its insufficient recognition of diverse films and television shows, particularly this past year. Rhimes took to social media to address the organization’s apparent bias against projects featuring Black talent, including ‘Bridgerton’, ‘Girls Trip’, and ‘Queen & Slim’.

Even prominent hosts like Tina Fey and Amy Poehler have called out the Golden Globes during their opening monologues for their lack of diversity. Rhimes tweeted, “HFPA turned down our press conference until it became a ‘surprise hit’ (as with Grey’s, Scandal, and Murder -SURPRISE!). Yet they still asked me to present at the Globes. This is indicative of why the HFPA’s reputation has suffered. They ignited this issue with their own ignorance.” She added, “I’m fortunate, but consider the talented individuals and shows that never had the opportunity.”

It’s astonishing that the HFPA dismissed a blockbuster show like ‘Bridgerton’, which prominently features a diverse cast and emphasizes romance through a female perspective. The series shattered Netflix records, reaching over 80 million households globally and maintaining a spot in the platform’s top 10 across 190 countries for several weeks. Despite its critical acclaim, the show received no Golden Globe nominations. While the Screen Actors Guild recognized it with a nomination for Best Ensemble and a nod for Regé-Jean Page as Best Lead Actor in a Drama Series, the HFPA initially refused to even host a press conference for promotional efforts.

After the show gained immense popularity during the holiday season, the HFPA rushed to organize an event just days before voting closed—a clear sign of their panicked response. Writer and producer Ava DuVernay also chimed in, recalling her experience with the HFPA while promoting her acclaimed Netflix series ‘When They See Us’. She remarked on the low turnout for their press conference, humorously questioning if the attendees had even watched the series, which garnered 16 Emmy nominations and won two, yet was overlooked by the Golden Globes.

Moving forward, it’s hoped that the HFPA will not only address its shortcomings but also undertake significant reforms before the next awards season.

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In summary, Shonda Rhimes highlighted the initial lack of support from the HFPA for ‘Bridgerton’, shedding light on the broader issue of diversity in Hollywood. Despite the show’s massive success, it faced significant hurdles in gaining recognition from awards organizations.