Life NOW

Nate Bargatze Addresses Criticism of Emmys ‌Donation Bit, Says Idea Came From Network ⁢Request

Los ‌Angeles – Comedian Nate Bargatze is defending teh donation-based time limit he ⁣implemented during his hosting of the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards on September 14, after the bit received⁣ widespread criticism for reportedly rushing winners and creating an ‍awkward atmosphere.Bargatze revealed on his podcast that the concept originated from a request ⁣by the network to find a ⁤solution for shortening the broadcast.

As part of the experiment,‍ Bargatze ​announced at⁣ the start of the show he would‍ deduct money from ⁤a planned $100,000 donation to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America for each second a winner exceeded the 45-second ‍time ⁢limit for acceptance speeches, and add money if speeches were shorter. A counter displaying the fluctuating donation amount appeared⁢ on screen throughout⁣ the night.

By the end of the evening, Bargatze⁢ declared the final ⁢count “embarrassing” and announced CBS would donate $100,000, and he would personally donate $250,000, bringing the total contribution to $350,000.He later confirmed on his podcast⁤ that he followed through ​with the donation.

The‌ bit was largely met with negative reactions on social media and in reviews. Time’s Judy Berman wrote the “ill-conceived gimmick weighed down” ‍the evening, while Variety’s Aramide Tinubu noted winners appeared “flustered and rushed, almost racing through their big moment.”

Bargatze⁣ explained on his podcast that the idea “came‍ from a real place of heart” and that he⁣ genuinely attempted‍ to “really⁣ find a solution” to the show’s length. He acknowledged the negative feedback, stating, “y’all don’t want any of this⁣ messed with.”

despite the controversy, the broadcast concluded in approximately three hours, adhering to the scheduled runtime.