Sacha Baron Cohen Appears at Academy Museum Gala Amid Controversy Over Ali G Comeback
The actor donned a tuxedo, a stark contrast to his controversial character Ali G, while his new film faces calls for a ban in UK cinemas.
Sacha Baron Cohen, known for his controversial character Ali G, attended the Academy Museum Gala in Los Angeles on Saturday night, trading his character's signature tracksuit for a tuxedo. The appearance comes as Cohen faces criticism and calls for his new film, "Ali G: Who Iz I?", to be banned in UK cinemas.
Cohen, 55, appeared dapper in a black double-breasted jacket and bow tie at the star-studded event. He was seen separately from his ex-wife, Isla Fisher, 50, who also attended the gala in a striking black off-the-shoulder gown. The couple mutually announced the end of their 14-year marriage in April 2024, with their divorce finalized in June of the same year.
The actor's public appearance coincides with growing backlash over his upcoming mockumentary, set for release on October 23. Campaigners have launched a petition urging cinemas worldwide to refuse to screen the film, citing claims that the character and movie perpetuate racist stereotypes. Cohen, in his directorial debut, reportedly filmed the movie in secret over a year, with the narrative following Ali G's life in the current era and featuring his pregnant girlfriend.
A campaign group has stated it has contacted 15 major cinema chains globally with the request to ban the film. In response to the mounting criticism, Cohen addressed the controversy on X, writing, "In an age where a comedian's career can be ended by a single un-PC joke, I thought I'd play it safe and bring this guy back."
Reports had suggested that UK cinema chain Picturehouse would not screen the film, but Variety later clarified that the chain's response was a standard customer service reply and no definitive decision has been made. Cohen had previously teased the return of Ali G with a surprise appearance at Wimbledon in July, sporting his character's trademark look.
The character Ali G first appeared on Channel 4's The 11 O'Clock Show in autumn 1998. He later became the focus of "Da Ali G Show" in the early 2000s, leading to the 2002 film "Ali G Indahouse." Cohen had announced the retirement of Ali G in 2007, but resurrected the character for the 2012 British Comedy Awards and again in 2014 for "Ali G Rezurection."