A former Golden Globes publicist's allegations that members of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association buy and sell nominations for gifts and other perks might force the Federal Communications Commission to get involved.
An FCC official told TheWrap that this was an area governed by the federal agency under so-called "sponsorship identification" regulations.
“We are responsible for ensuring the integrity of the public airwaves, including enforcing 'sponsorship identification rules,'” the official told TheWrap.
The commission would not comment on anything specific until it carefully examines any complaints. Michael Russell, who served as the HFPA spokesperson for 17 years, released the explosive charges in a lawsuit filed on the eve of the group’s popular awards show.
Generally, the agency responds to specific consumer complaints, rather than private lawsuits such as the one filed by Russell.
The suit alleges that "payola" is rife throughout the awards, including members taking money to lobby for specific films, selling media credentials and red carpet spots. The suit also alleges that HFPA President Phil Berk sought kickbacks from sponsors, even calling NBC – which airs the Globes telecast – to demand he be given a commission for a $2 million ad buy by Chrysler.
In the case of a possible violation, the FCC might issue a "letter of inquiry," the official told TheWrap.
If the HFPA is found to be in violation, the commission could issue a notice of apparent liability and the matter would be sent to the enforcement bureau.
