Anthony Anderson mom scolds Emmys monologue

Anthony Anderson hosted the Emmys, but his mom stole the show by heckling him to hurry up and wrap it up.

The 2023 Emmy Awards kicked off with host Anthony Anderson taking the stage at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. The "Black-ish" star began his opening speech by poking fun at his childhood crushes on "The Facts of Life" characters. However, it was his mom, Doris Hancox, who stole the show when she stood up from the crowd to heckle Anthony to "hurry up" with his monologue, expressing her desire to go to the after-parties. When Anthony mentioned her role as the Emmys' "play-off mama," Doris humorously responded with, "Time's up, baby. Wrap it up."

Despite this being Anderson's first time hosting the star-studded event, he is no stranger to TV's biggest night, with 11 Emmy nominations, including seven Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series nods for his portrayal of Andre "Dre" Johnson in "Black-ish." In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Anderson joked about his 0 for 11 record at the Emmys, stating that hosting the award show would allow him to covet the award missing from his shelf and deliver the 11 speeches he had prepared over the years.

Anderson emphasized that his opening monologue would involve taking jabs at friends, other actors, and television shows, making it enjoyable for viewers at home. He also humorously questioned whether Jason Sudeikis needed another Emmy over him in "Black-ish." Describing himself as a "habitual line-crosser," Anderson expressed that he did not achieve his career success by playing it safe.