Paul Mooney's controversial performance at the 2005 BET Comedy Awards exemplified his uncompromising approach to comedy and social commentary. During the segment titled "Black People Wake Up Call Award," Mooney targeted African American celebrities he felt had distanced themselves from their racial identity, including Michael Jackson, Oprah Winfrey, and Diana Ross. His jokes about Ross's 2002 DUI arrest and the death of her ex-husband reportedly offended Ross's daughter Tracee Ellis Ross, who was in attendance.
When questioned about the controversial nature of his performance, Mooney remained unapologetic, defending his right to critique celebrities and pointing out what he perceived as a double standard in the scrutiny of black comedians compared to their white counterparts. This incident highlighted Mooney's fearless approach to comedy, his willingness to challenge societal norms, and his commitment to addressing racial issues, even when it meant facing backlash or censorship. The controversy surrounding this performance underscores the provocative nature of Mooney's comedy and his role as a polarizing figure in the entertainment industry.