Golden Globes Organization Files Lawsuit Against Penske Media

Updated at: July 30, 2026 at 04:00 AM

On July 28, 2026, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA), the historical organizer of the Golden Globe Awards, filed a major antitrust lawsuit against Penske Media Corporation (PMC) and its chairman, Jay Penske.

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The HFPA alleges that the 2023 sale of the Golden Globes was a fraudulent 'sham' designed to create a monopoly in Hollywood's media and awards landscape.

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nounmonopoly

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According to the lawsuit, Penske and billionaire Todd Boehly allegedly manufactured a crisis to devalue the HFPA, then orchestrated a hostile acquisition.

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The complaint describes the current operations as a 'pay-to-play' system, where awards recognition is unfairly tied to advertising spending in Penske-owned publications like Variety and Deadline.

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Seeking at least $150 million in damages and a full reversal of the 2023 deal, the organization aims to unwind the transaction.

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In response, a spokesperson for the current owners dismissed the legal action, calling it an absurd move by a defunct organization.

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As this federal case proceeds in California, it highlights the intense power dynamics within Hollywood's influential awards and trade publication industries.

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Challenge Mode

Comprehension Questions

What is the primary goal of the HFPA's lawsuit?

To change the voting eligibility for the 2027 awards ceremony.

To increase the number of Golden Globe categories.

To seek $150 million in damages and cancel the 2023 acquisition.

Reveal Answer

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Correct Choice

To seek $150 million in damages and cancel the 2023 acquisition.

What does the HFPA allege Jay Penske and Todd Boehly did regarding the 2021-2022 industry boycott?

They fueled the boycott to devalue the organization for a hostile acquisition.

They officially apologized for their role in the boycott.

They prevented the boycott from happening.

Reveal Answer

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Correct Choice

They fueled the boycott to devalue the organization for a hostile acquisition.

What is the 'pay-to-play' allegation mentioned in the lawsuit?

That actors must pay the HFPA directly to receive an award nomination.

That awards consideration is linked to buying ads in Penske-owned publications.

That the Golden Globes are no longer being televised.

Reveal Answer

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Correct Choice

That awards consideration is linked to buying ads in Penske-owned publications.

How did the defendants respond to the lawsuit?

They agreed to pay the requested $150 million in damages.

They decided to immediately sell the Golden Globes back to the HFPA.

They dismissed the claims as absurd and irrational.

Reveal Answer

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Correct Choice

They dismissed the claims as absurd and irrational.

What role does the HFPA claim Todd Boehly played in the acquisition?

He infiltrated the leadership as interim CEO to facilitate the secret deal.

He led a public campaign to keep the Golden Globes independent.

He served as an external legal advisor for the HFPA.

Reveal Answer

✓

Correct Choice

He infiltrated the leadership as interim CEO to facilitate the secret deal.

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