James Corden goes in heavy on Harvey Weinstein jokes while hosting AIDS benefit

Too soon?

Yes, is the answer, in case you're wondering if it was too soon for James Corden to making jokes about decades of women finally amassing the courage to come forward about sexual harassment and assault by one of Hollywood's biggest producers. Corden was MC for the night at the amfAR Gala - the American Foundation for AIDS Research - and literally just HOURS after Weinstein had been removed from the Oscars Academy (only the second person in history), Corden was on stage, making jokes at his expense, to an audience of mild laughter and load groans. “This is a beautiful room, it’s a beautiful night here in L.A. It’s so beautiful, Harvey Weinstein has already asked tonight up to his hotel to give him a massage.” When the audience didn't react in a hugely positive way, Corden warned them that if they found his Weinstein jokes offensive, they would be better served just getting up and leaving right then and there, as he continued into another barrage. “It has been weird this week though, watching Harvey Weinstein in hot water. Ask any of the women who watched him take a bath." "Harvey Weinstein wanted to come tonight, but sadly he’ll settle for whatever potted plant is closest.”

Straight out gate, host @JKCorden with Harvey Weinstein jokes. Too soon? Some laughs, some groans #amfARLosAngeles pic.twitter.com/nx88w5UwUe

— Chris Gardner (@chrissgardner) October 14, 2017

Considering that the number of women who are still coming forward about Weinstein's actions over the years is continuing to climb, this is obviously still an open wound for many of the actresses in Hollywood, some of whom were in the very room that Corden was addressing at the time. There is bad taste, and there is bad timing, and last night, Corden possessed both. Meanwhile, Weinstein does have some people in Hollywood on his side...

Woody Allen 'sad' for Weinstein https://t.co/L8A4H7xrSD

— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) October 15, 2017