James Cameron has publicly criticized Amy Poehler for a joke she made during the 2013 Golden Globes, which referenced his ex-wife, Kathryn Bigelow. The renowned director of films such as Avatar and Titanic described Poehler’s remarks as “ignorant” and shared insights into his ongoing friendship with Bigelow.
At the 2013 Golden Globes, Poehler, alongside Tina Fey, made a quip while presenting the award for Best Director. Bigelow was nominated that year for her work on Zero Dark Thirty, a film known for its intense portrayal of events surrounding the hunt for Osama bin Laden. Poehler joked, “When it comes to torture, I trust the lady who spent three years married to James Cameron,” referring to Bigelow’s film, which includes scenes depicting torture.
Thirteen years later, Cameron is addressing the joke, which he feels crossed a line. In an interview with the New York Times, he stated, “Amy Poehler’s remark was an ignorant dig, at an event which is supposed to be a celebration of cinema and filmmakers, not a roast.” Cameron emphasized that while he is generally thick-skinned and can appreciate good-natured humor, this particular instance felt inappropriate.
Cameron elaborated on the impact of the joke, suggesting that it reflects a misunderstanding of his character. “The fact that people found it funny shows exactly what they think of me, even though they have no idea who I am or how I work,” he remarked.
Despite the offensive nature of the joke, Cameron confirmed that he and Bigelow remain on friendly terms and continue to support each other’s professional endeavors. The two directors were once competitors at the 2010 Academy Awards, where Cameron was nominated for Avatar and Bigelow for The Hurt Locker. Ultimately, Bigelow won the Oscar for Best Director, a moment that Cameron celebrated. “I was the first one on my feet applauding,” he recalled.
Reflecting on the awards ceremony, Cameron expressed a desire for the Academy to have recognized Avatar with the Best Picture award, although The Hurt Locker claimed that honor as well.
Cameron’s comments have reignited discussions about the intersection of personal history and public humor within the entertainment industry. As he continues to navigate the complex landscape of filmmaking and personal relationships, his critique of Poehler’s jest serves as a reminder of the sensitivities that can arise in the public eye.
