“Unfortunately and without my knowing, the talent booker working for the Academy told Ms. Haddish that we wouldn’t even cover her costs while she hosted this event for us,” he said. “To me that was wrong. I’m frustrated by that decision. It was a lapse in judgment, it was in poor taste, and it was disrespectful to the creative community—I’m part of the creative community and I know what that feels like, and it’s not right.” He recounted a conversation he had with Haddish in which he apologized and reiterated his apology in his video.

Variety reported that a Recording Academy rep pointed out that this Premiere Ceremony is not a CBS production but “is hosted by the Academy—a not-for-profit organization—and that all hosts, presenters, and performers have traditionally performed gratis, including this year.” The rep also noted that the situation would have no impact on any future nominations for Haddish.

To Variety, Haddish said, “This is something that needs to be addressed. How many other people have they done that to? It’s like a guy asking you on a date but telling you that you have to pay for it.”

To answer Haddish’s question: A lot, apparently!