Ricky Gervais Launches Attack On Oscars' $140k Gift Bags

Ricky Gervais has taken a pop at the expensive goody bags handed out to Oscars nominees, which are worth more than £100,000 ($140,000) and include high-end gifts such as a trip to a wellness retreat, gold infused olive oil and even a title of a Laird, Lord or Lady of Glencoe.

The 60-year-old comedian, who has previously hosted the Golden Globes, responded to a tweet from a fan who said they wished Gervais was hosting the Oscars. 

He wrote: “I'd start with "Hello. I hope this show helps cheer up the ordinary people watching at home. If you’re unemployed for example, take some comfort in the fact that even if you had a job, your salary probably wouldn't be as much as the goody bag all the actors have just been given.

"I'm proud to announce that this is the most diverse and progressive Oscars ever. Looking out I see people from all walks of life. Every demographic under the sun. Except poor people, obviously. F**k them."

When asked what he’d finish with, Gervais jokingly - and perhaps accurately - said: “My career.”

The luxury goody bags are handed out to nominees in the Best Actor and Actress, Best Supporting Actor and Actress and Best Director categories, and every year it seems as though organisers try and outdo themselves with the contents. 

This year, the bag includes the likes of gold-flecked Posh Pretzels, a box of products from skincare brand Byroe, limited-edition Trust Me Vodka bottles, extra virgin olive oil infused with edible gold flakes, Manuka honey and a skin treatment worth £7,600 ($10,000). 

There’s also a four-night stay for two at a luxury resort, a three-day wellness retreat and an arm sculpting procedure. 

But the highlight this year was the plot of land in Scotland. The present comes from Highland Titles and allows the recipient to contribute to the establishment of nature reserves, while also awarding them a title of a Laird, Lord or Lady of Glencoe.

The size of each plot has not been revealed, but Highland Titles offers customers the chance to purchase plots of land ranging between 1sqft and 100sqft, with the latter costing £150 ($197). Owners of the plots are also granted 'the right to visit your plot anytime and transfer to future generations', the website explains.