Sacha Baron Cohen reprised his role as wannabe gangster Ali G during the Oscars to bring a hint of diversity to the awards show Sunday.
The British comedian joined actress Olivia Wilde on stage, wearing the fictional character’s signature tinted sunglasses and red beanie hat. “I know what you was thinking when I walked on: ‘Here comes yet another token black presenter,’” he said. Baron Cohen is of European Jewish heritage but his character Ali G is a white Londoner who thinks he is black.
Cohen joked, saying there should be an Oscar for the “very hard-working little yellow people” before adding that he was talking about the beloved Minions. The revival of Ali G comes amid criticism of the all-white Oscar acting nominations.
More Must-Reads from TIME
- Donald Trump Is TIME's 2024 Person of the Year
- Why We Chose Trump as Person of the Year
- Is Intermittent Fasting Good or Bad for You?
- The 100 Must-Read Books of 2024
- The 20 Best Christmas TV Episodes
- Column: If Optimism Feels Ridiculous Now, Try Hope
- The Future of Climate Action Is Trade Policy
- Merle Bombardieri Is Helping People Make the Baby Decision
Contact us at letters@time.com