New Delhi, India

Comedian-actor Vir Das created history on Monday night as he became the first Indian to host the International Emmy Awards. The comedian-actor presented the 2024 edition of the popular TV and streaming awards in a starry event held in New York. Das charmed the audience with his wit and made jokes about anyone and everyone. 

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The award ceremony was not streamed or telecast in India and many other countries – which became a subject of joke for the comedian. Vir couldn't help but point out the irony of the situation that an awards night honouring the best of OTT was not available for viewing on any of the OTT spaces. In a clip shared by the comedian himself on Instagram Stories, he says, "All the major platforms are here and humbly, I feel that next year, one of you should really broadcast this show. What do you think?"

As Vir's statement was met with cheers and applause from the crowd, he asked, "Who does Will Smith have to slap tonight for us to get some eyeballs, guys?" The joke was a reference to the infamous incident from the 2022 Oscars when actor Will Smith slapped comedian Chris Rock on stage after he made a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett. 

Continuing his monologue, Vir added, "I'm kidding. We are foreigners. You can't slap foreigners with anything but sanctions...sorry tariffs."

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The International Emmy Awards were held in New York City on Monday night. For the awards night, Vir wore formal attire designed by the fashion label Salooka by Shubangi Bajpai. 

Vir Das was nominated for an Emmy in 2021 for his special Vir Das: For India and won in 2023 for his Netflix special Vir Das: Landing.