Gil Cates reminds all that Rock ‘is funny’

Oscar producer Gil Cates reminded everyone Monday that Chris Rock is a comedian, which means that he will occasionally make jokes.

Responding to items in Variety and on the Drudge Report, Cates issued a statement denying that the academy has heard complaints from members regarding some of Rock’s remarks in the press and speculation that he or the academy would ask Rock to step aside. Rock, who will host the 77th Academy Awards on ABC, has developed an irreverent routine about his ignorance of the Oscars, saying, in several publications, things like: “I never watched the Oscars. It’s a fashion show. What straight black man sits there and watches the Oscars?”

The Drudge Report quoted one unnamed “Hollywood mogul” and one unnamed “nominated actress” in an item claiming that “veteran members of the academy” have grown concerned over the choice of Rock as host because he does not seem to take the show seriously enough.

ABC, which is broadcasting the show, said it hasn’t received any complaints. Meanwhile, Cates scoffs at the idea of Rock’s comments even being an issue.

“Chris has not said anything that has surprised me,” Cates said. “I was there in the press conference when he first said he had never watched the show. And as for the other comments, they were very clearly jokes. Which is exactly why we chose him. Because he is funny.” Everyone should get used to Rock’s humorous digs, Cates adds, “because he is going to be saying things just like that in the show.”

The statement was issued not because Cates or anyone involved with the show had heard any complaint or concern but because “it was out there and we figured we’ll just address it and move on. Besides,” he added with a laugh, “if nothing else, it reminds everyone that the Academy Awards are being broadcast on Feb. 27.”