Jimmy Kimmel Brings Oscar Audience To Its Feet With Rousing Salute To Below-The-Line Workers, “The People Who Rallied Beside Us”

Oscar host Jimmy Kimmel drew a standing ovation at the Dolby Theatre by capping off his show-opening monologue with a salute to below-the-line union workers.

“We were able to make a deal because of the people who rallied beside us,” Kimmel said, alluding to those who picketed in support of WGA and SAG/AFTRA members. “Before we celebrate ourselves, let’s have a very well-deserved round of applause for the people who work behind the scenes: the Teamsters, the truck drivers, the lighting crew, sound, camera, gaffers, grips. That’s right. All the people who refused to cross the picket line”

As the applause built and started to drown Kimmel out, the host invited crew members working on the ABC awards telecast to step out onstage and acknowledge the cheers.

“There they are,” Kimmel said, adding a quip, “If you wear Skechers to the Oscars, take a bow.”

Kimmel’s gesture came as Hollywood found itself nearing yet another labor crossroads after last year’s dual strikes shut down the town for several months. IATSE negotiators have begun talks with the AMPTP ahead of a summer deadline, but guild members have been indicating a strong willingness to walk off the job.

Before the sincerity of the onstage moment fully materialized, the segment of the monologue appeared to be yet another gimlet-eyed observation by the host.

MORE to come …