Creator of $140,000 Oscars gift bag hits back at Ricky Gervais over his criticism

The creator of the $140,000 gift bag given to celebs at this year's Academy Awards has hit back at Ricky Gervais following his critical comments.

After it was reported that this year's Oscars nominees would be receiving a gift bag full of gifts totaling $140,000, the 60-year-old comedian opted to poke fun at the lavish offering.

Responding to a tweet in which one fan expressed their desire to see Gervais hosting the annual awards ceremony, The Office star joked what his opening comments would be, writing:

"I'd start with 'Hello. I hope this show helps cheer up the ordinary people watching at home. If you’re unemployed for example, take some comfort in the fact that even if you had a job, your salary probably wouldn't be as much as the goody bag all the actors have just been given.'"

He added in a follow-up tweet: "I'm proud to announce that this is the most diverse and progressive Oscars ever. Looking out I see people from all walks of life. Every demographic under the sun. Except poor people, obviously. F**k them."

Just like in previous years, this year's gift bag was assembled by Distinctive Assets founder Lash Fary, who recently revealed that the six-figure handout would include sessions with fitness legend Diego Sebastian, CBD Bath Bombs, a Qai Qai doll from Serena Williams, a plot of land in Scotland, and much more.

Read the full contents of the exorbitant gift bag HERE.

However, Gervais' joke clearly hit a nerve with Fary, who has since responded to the After Life creator.

Speaking to the Metro, Fary said: "Ricky Gervais is a talented comedian, so it’s no surprise that I find the hypocrisy of his 'goody bag tweet' hilarious.

"While we do not spend money buying any of the items in our gift bags (much like advertising, this is simply a promotional campaign for brands), the valuation is indeed significant… but not nearly as substantial as Ricky’s recent Netflix deal, the residuals he receives for The Office or his multi-million-dollar home."

Credit: Alamy / Matthew Horwood

Ouch. Fary even went on to paraphrase Gervais' original tweet, saying: "So if you’re unemployed, take some comfort in the fact that even if you had a job, your salary probably wouldn’t be as much as Ricky Gervais makes for a single episode of After Life."

Featured image credit: Abaca Press / Alamy