Grammys host Trevor Noah took aim at President Donald Trump’s new tariffs during his opening monologue for the music ceremony.
The comedian, hosting the event for the fifth consecutive year in Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena, mentioned record-breaking nominee Beyoncé and her forthcoming ‘Cowboy Carter‘ tour, referencing financial tariffs put on Canada by the US President.
“I will say, though Beyoncé. There’s tariffs” he quipped. “We can’t afford a new tour, right? Maple syrup is about to be $50 (£40.62)”.
The new US immigration policies brought in since the Trump Administration took office were also a topic in the monologue. “We’re going to be honouring the best in music as voted on by the 13,000 members of the Recording Academy and 20million illegal immigrants” he said.
The South African host also made a joke regarding his own citizenship. “There’s been a few changes in Washington. So I’m gonna enjoy tonight because this may be my last time I get to host anything in this country” he said.
Trump’s immigration measures recently prompted an emotional response from singer and actress Selena Gomez, who posted an Instagram story weeping at the news of record deportations. The post was met with disdain from right wing figures, with Trump’s border tsar making light of the story.
The Grammys saw Beyoncé win three awards during Sunday’s (February 2 ceremony), including her first ever Album Of The Year victory. The haul extends her leads as the artist with the most wins in Grammys history with 35. The full list of winners can be read here.
There were more political statements made by performers and winners at the ceremony. Shakira dedicated her award to her “immigrant brothers and sisters”, while Lady Gaga defended the transgender community by saying “Trans people are not invisible. Trans people deserve love. The queer community deserves to be lifted up”.