The 2025 Grammy Awards got off to a rough start—at least for Latinos—thanks to host Trevor Noah, who led the ceremony for the fifth consecutive year. Known for his typically respectful approach, Noah attempted to incorporate the struggles of undocumented immigrants in the U.S. and the immense talent of Shakira into his monologue. However, his remarks not only fell flat but were widely perceived as offensive to the Latino community.

Noah's routine started well, emphasizing the event's main goal: raising funds for those affected by the December wildfires in Los Angeles. He then acknowledged some of the nominees in attendance, including Alicia Keys, Chappell Roan, and Taylor Swift, and even cracked a joke about Beyoncé, the most-nominated artist of the night, who had yet to make an appearance when the broadcast started.

So far, so good.

Trevor Noah's misguided jokes about Latinos

Things took a turn when he referenced the Recording Academy, the organization behind the Grammys, stating that it included "20 million undocumented immigrants." The comment seemed completely out of place, especially given the ongoing wave of deportations in the U.S. and the fact that Los Angeles—the city hosting the ceremony and the one it aimed to support—is nearly 48% Latino, according to the latest census.

As if that weren't enough, Noah followed up with an ill-advised remark about Shakira, calling her "Colombia's best export that isn't a Class A felony."

The drug-related reference did not go unnoticed on social media, which quickly erupted in backlash against the Grammy host.

Reactions to Trevor Noah's Colombia joke

"So, the Grammys kicked off with an insult to Colombia when Trevor Noah mentioned Shakira," one user posted on X (formerly Twitter), with another adding, "So Trevor Noah is pro-illegal immigration, unless you're from Colombia, I guess."

Others were even harsher: "Trevor Noah has became officially a Colombia's Public Enemy."

Another wrote, "I am not sure Trevor Noah understands what to joke about and what NOT to joke about, take our country's name out of your mouth."

While some were willing to give him the benefit of the doubt, the overwhelming response was one of outrage. The night was still young when the controversy erupted.

Originally published in Latin Times.

Tags
Shakira, Trevor noah