- Vir Das made history as the first Indian to host the International Emmy Awards.
- The comedian poked fun at Will Smith’s Oscar slap and the OTT industry during his monologue.
- Das wore a custom outfit by Delhi-based designer Shubhangi Bajpai.
Vir Das made a groundbreaking appearance as the first Indian host of the International Emmy Awards 2024, held in New York City. During his monologue, he delivered a memorable punchline, humorously referencing the infamous 2022 Oscar slap by Will Smith:
“Who does Will Smith have to slap tonight for us to get some eyeballs?” This witty remark set the tone for a night filled with jabs at the entertainment industry. He also took a dig at the US government, poking fun at foreign relations.
Vir Das Brings Humor to the International Emmy Awards, Takes a Jibe at Will Smith
Das, who won an International Emmy the previous year for his stand-up special Landing, shared his excitement about the event on social media, describing his hosting experience as “going well.” For the ceremony, he wore a monochrome ensemble by Shubhangi Bajpai, a young designer from Delhi, following an open call to emerging designers to create his look. His red carpet appearance and hosting skills made the event even more memorable for attendees and viewers alike.
The highlight of his monologue was his playful jab at Will Smith’s infamous slap during the 2022 Academy Awards. Das quipped, “Who does Will Smith have to slap tonight for us to get some eyeballs?” This comment instantly connected with the audience, keeping the tone light and humorous while referencing a major pop culture moment. His wit didn’t stop there, as he further poked fun at the US government, humorously stating that foreigners like himself could only be slapped with sanctions and tariffs.
His hosting gig at the Emmys followed his own success in 2023, when he won an International Emmy for his stand-up special Landing. Das used the opportunity to celebrate his achievements while delivering a performance that balanced humor with international flair. His style on stage was a reflection of his comedic persona—approachable, quick-witted, and memorable.
For the prestigious event, Vir Das wore a monochrome outfit by Shubhangi Bajpai, a rising designer from Delhi. This collaboration gave aspiring designers a platform to showcase their work and helped further cement Das’s role as a promoter of young talent. His hosting duties at the 52nd edition of the International Emmy Awards solidified his place as a trailblazer for Indian entertainers on the global stage.
Vir Das’s hosting debut at the 2024 International Emmy Awards was both historic and hilarious, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry with his sharp humor and memorable monologue.
“Who does Will Smith have to slap tonight for us to get some eyeballs?” – Vir Das. This quote from his hosting monologue became one of the highlights of the 2024 International Emmy Awards
