Golden Globes History: Iconic Hollywood Moments

The Golden Globes are preparing for their 83rd annual broadcast on CBS and Paramount+. This major event in Hollywood's awards season traces its roots back to January 20, 1944, when the Hollywood Foreign Press Association first gathered to honor films from 1943.

Over the last eight decades, the ceremony has evolved significantly. It expanded to include television categories, survived various scandals, and returned after a one-year hiatus in 2022. The event is famous for its relaxed atmosphere, where over 7,500 glasses of bubbly are consumed nightly, allowing stars to mingle at tables rather than sitting in rows.

From its humble beginnings at the 20th Century Fox lot to its permanent residence at the Beverly Hills Hilton since 1961, the Globes have captured Hollywood history. The following sections explore the memorable moments and legendary figures who have defined the ceremony over the years.

The Golden Globes originated in 1944, organized by a group of writers who formed the Hollywood Foreign Press Association the previous year. The inaugural ceremony was held at the 20th Century Fox lot to celebrate the films of 1943.

For two decades, the event moved between venues before establishing a permanent home at the Beverly Hills Hilton in 1961. By the time of the 20th Golden Globes in 1963, the stage presentation had evolved to resemble the modern format familiar to audiences today.

The ceremony is distinct from other awards shows because it is often described as the 'fun' awards show. Attendees are seated at tables rather than rows, and alcohol is famously served throughout the night. This setup encourages interaction between stars, creating unique pairings that are rarely seen at other formal events.

The 1950s and 1960s were defined by legendary stars attending the Globes. In 1955, Judy Garland and Marlon Brando sat next to each other; both took home statues that night for their roles in 'A Star is Born' and 'On the Waterfront.'

Grace Kelly attended the 1956 ceremony to accept the award for World Film Favorite (Female). She retired from acting that same year to marry Prince Rainier III of Monaco. Marilyn Monroe was also a frequent attendee, winning her fourth and final Golden Globe for World Film Favorite (Female) in 1962, just months before her death.

The lifetime achievement award, named after Cecil B. DeMille, was established to honor figures like DeMille himself, who directed classics such as 'The Ten Commandments.' Other stars who made early appearances include:

• Barbra Streisand, who won her first Globe for 'Funny Girl' in 1969.
• Dustin Hoffman, who won Most Promising Newcomer for 'The Graduate' in 1968.
• Arnold Schwarzenegger, who won New Star of the Year in 1977.

The Golden Globes have often been the setting for personal drama. In 1958, Elizabeth Taylor attended with her third husband, Mike Todd, and future fourth husband, Eddie Fisher. Todd died in a plane crash one month later, and Taylor and Fisher began an affair shortly after, leading to the divorce of Fisher and Debbie Reynolds.

Other notable interactions include Desi Arnaz and Lucille Ball chatting with gossip columnist Louella Parsons in 1956. In 1965, Julie Andrews famously shaded Jack Warner after he cast Audrey Hepburn in 'My Fair Lady' instead of her. Upon winning for 'The Sound of Music', Andrews thanked 'the man who made all this possible in the first place, Mr. Jack Warner.'

Couples often attend together, such as Mark Hamill and his wife in 1978, Sonny and Cher in 1973, and Tom Selleck and his wife in matching tuxedos. Rock Hudson and Doris Day were also frequent attendees, both winning the title of 'world's favorite performers.'

The ceremony continues to recognize established and emerging talent. Robin Williams won his first of six Golden Globes in 1979 for 'Mork and Mindy.' Angela Lansbury won for 'Murder, She Wrote' in 1987, adding to her legacy before passing away in 2022.

The Cecil B. DeMille Award remains a highlight. In 2021, Jane Fonda received the honor. The source notes that Helen Mirren is set to be the honoree for the upcoming ceremony.

As the 83rd annual event approaches, the Golden Globes remain a staple of Hollywood culture. With the ceremony airing on CBS and Paramount+, a new chapter will be added to the history of the 'fun' awards show.