British comedian Ricky Gervais received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on May 30, 2025. The event turned heads when his acceptance speech included sharp jokes about famous figures linked to scandals. Known for his edgy humor, Gervais didn’t hold back, mentioning Michael Jackson, Bill Cosby, and Roscoe “Fatty” Arbuckle—all accused of serious crimes in the past.
The 63-year-old creator of The Office and After Life joked about being honored alongside these controversial names. His comments quickly drew mixed reactions, with some praising his fearless comedy and others calling it inappropriate for the occasion.
Gervais wore his usual casual outfit—a black T-shirt and jeans—during the ceremony. He humorously apologized for his attire, saying he no longer owned a suit that fit. The star, located at 1628 Vine Street, is the 2,813th on the Walk of Fame.
Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos and actor Christopher Guest attended as guest speakers. Walk of Fame producer Ana Martinez lightened the mood by saying, “Finally, a star that will give snarky commentary every time someone walks by… I always knew we needed a comedian’s touch on our famed sidewalk.”
Gervais has a history of pushing boundaries with his comedy. His 2020 Golden Globes monologue targeted Hollywood elites, including Jeffrey Epstein and Prince Andrew. He often defends his style by saying comedy should challenge norms.
During his Walk of Fame speech, he sarcastically said, “Wow, this is a huge surprise. I never thought I’d win this today.” He then pulled out a prepared speech, joking about his lack of seriousness. However, he also shared a sincere moment, calling the honor “humbling.”
Michael Jackson, Bill Cosby, and Fatty Arbuckle—the figures Gervais referenced—have faced legal troubles. Jackson was accused of child abuse but acquitted. Cosby’s rape conviction was overturned in 2021. Arbuckle, a silent film star, was tried for rape and manslaughter in the 1920s but cleared.
Gervais has faced backlash before. His 2023 Netflix special Armageddon drew criticism for jokes about terminally ill children. Over 12,000 people signed a petition to cancel it before release. He defended the special, saying comedy should not be taken literally.
“These are all jokes, all right? I don’t even use that word in real life, the R-word. … I’m playing a role,” he told audiences. He later dismissed critics as “hecklers” who hadn’t even heard the full material.
His film SuperNature also stirred debate for jokes about transgender people and AIDS. He argued that comedy helps people confront difficult topics. “Most offence comes from when people mistake the subject of a joke with the actual target,” he said.
Gervais has won seven BAFTAs, four Emmys, and four Golden Globes. The Office remains one of the most successful British comedies, adapted in over 90 countries. His Netflix show After Life earned critical acclaim for its dark humor and emotional depth.
Beyond comedy, Gervais supports animal charities, donating over $3 million to groups like Nowzad and Paws2Rescue. He has received awards for his animal welfare work, including the Humane Society’s Cecil Award.
Fans had mixed reactions to his Walk of Fame speech. Some praised his boldness, while others felt the jokes were ill-timed. Social media debates flared, with many discussing the line between edgy humor and insensitivity.
Gervais remains unapologetic. In a recent interview, he said, “You have to have free speech. There’s nothing you could say that someone somewhere won’t be offended by. It’s impossible, so you shouldn’t even try.”
He compared comedians to politicians, saying, “Politicians say awful things and they mean it, and no one laughs. Comedians say things they don’t mean, everyone laughs, and they get the same treatment.” His upcoming stand-up tour, Mortality, will tackle dark themes like death.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony was streamed live, drawing global viewers. Gervais joins past honorees like Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder. His star cements his legacy in entertainment, even as his style continues to divide audiences.
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