Trevor Noah sparked controversy at the 2025 Grammy Awards with a joke about Colombian singer Shakira, calling her “the greatest thing out of Colombia that isn’t a class A felony.”
We, the Colombians, are sick of being treated like criminals #Grammys2025 @Trevornoah we are waiting for an apology pic.twitter.com/9J9Y9HOxVy
— Jonatan Clay (@MundoClay) February 3, 2025
The remark drew backlash for perpetuating harmful stereotypes about Colombia and its association with crime. Many Colombians demanded an apology, calling the joke “offensive and outdated.”
Some defended Noah, arguing it was just a joke referencing Colombia’s drug history. The incident highlights the evolving boundaries of comedy and how humor can carry unintended weight on a global stage. Was the reaction fair or an overreaction?
