Golden Globes host Jerrod Carmichael kicked off the 80th annual ceremony by addressing the award show's previous diversity controversy.

The US comedian told audiences, "I'll tell you why I'm here, I'm here because I'm black," as he opened the show in Los Angeles on Tuesday evening.

Last year's show was turned into a "private event" at the last minute by organisers, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA), after it faced heavy criticism over its lack of black members.

"I'll tell you what's been going on," Carmichael told audiences at the top of the show.

"This show, the Golden Globe Awards did not air last year, because the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, which I won't say they were a racist organisation, but they didn't have a single black member until George Floyd died - do with that information what you will.

"One minute I'm making mint tea at home, the next you're invited to be the black face of an embattled white organisation. Life really comes at you fast."

He added: "I took this job assuming they hadn't changed at all.

"(But) regardless of whatever the Hollywood Foreign Press Association's past may be, this is an evening where we get to celebrate.

"And I think this industry deserves evenings like these. And I'm happy to be here."

Following the fallout, the HFPA subsequently vowed to overhaul its bylaws and implement changes addressing ethics and inclusion.

The Farreller is back, baby!!

Tuesday's milestone event took place at the Beverly Hilton hotel in Los Angeles and saw the return of multiple famous faces.

The first awards of the night, for best supporting actor and actresses in a drama motion picture, went to Ke Huy Quan and Angela Basset, respectively.

Colin Farrell won Best Actor - Musical or Comedy for his role in The Banshees of Inisherin.

A slew of celebrities took on presenting duties throughout the evening including Letitia Wright, Jennifer Hudson, Salma Hayek, Hilary Swank and Ana De Armas.

Last year the awards were announced via periodic updates from the Golden Globes website and official social media accounts, after US network NBC refused to air the show.

Source: Press Association