‘Up-and-comer’ Meryl Streep, ‘speechless’ Mel Gibson at Golden Globe announcement

Los Angeles—Ryan Reynolds said he was changing his baby’s diapers when he heard the happy news, just as he had predicted. “When that call comes in, I am going to be staring down the barrel of something nasty,” he was quoted as saying.

Casey Affleck revealed that while he was nominated as best supporting actor in 2008 for “The Assassination of Jesse James,” it will be his first time to attend Hollywood’s party of the year. What, his brother Ben never took him to the much-awaited awards show every January? This time, Casey is in the running for the best actor-drama trophy for “Manchester by the Sea.”

Something about waking up at dawn—and being rewarded with a nod—made some of the nominees to the 74th Annual Golden Globe Awards react with candor and humor.

While Los Angeles slept, we also woke up early at 3 a.m. and drove to the Beverly Hilton for the nominations announcement by Anna Kendrick, Don Cheadle and Laura Dern.

They were joined by the Miss Golden Globe trio, daughters of Sylvester Stallone—Sophia, Sistine and Scarlet—escorted by their mom, former model Jennifer Flavin, who proudly took photos of her lovely girls with her mobile phone.

Presiding over the ceremonies telecast and live streamed around the world was Lorenzo Soria, president of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA), the group of international journalists which votes on and presents the awards recognizing excellence in film and television. Barry Adelman represented dick clark productions, which produces the star-studded show to be hosted this time by Jimmy Fallon.

Fil-Am actress Hailee Steinfeld, among the first-time nominees, earned a best actress-musical or comedy nod for her acclaimed performance in “The Edge of Seventeen.”

“I am overcome with excitement and joy to be nominated for ‘The Edge of Seventeen,’” said Hailee, whose mother’s family hails from Bohol. “We set out to make a film that would resonate with men and women of all ages, because the message of self-acceptance and embracing your truth is universal.

“Contrary to the reality that I face as a young actress on a daily basis, ‘Eo17’ isn’t a film about a teenage girl wrestling with her identity and self-worth because of the influence of social media defining her popularity. Instead, it’s an anthem for self-acceptance. I’m so grateful to Jim Brooks (producer) and Kelly Fremon-Craig (director) for granting me the opportunity to play such a complex and unlikely heroine.”

Other actors who woke up to find themselves nominated for the first time included Tom Hiddleston, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Dev Patel and Isabelle Huppert. These nominees will find out if they are winners as well on Jan. 8.

Below are the reaction comments of some of the nominees:

Rachel Bloom, nominee, best actress, TV series-musical or comedy (“Crazy Ex-Girlfriend”)

First, I’d love to say how thrilled I am to get another Globes nomination. We’re in the age of “Peak TV,” so getting singled out and recognized for any award means more now than ever.

When I heard the news, I was at my kitchen table. I was no less nervous than last year but, this year, I have more self-confidence going into it, for sure.

Mel Gibson, nominee, best director (“Hacksaw Ridge”)

Wow, wow, wow. I just woke up and had a cup of coffee. I’m speechless—which is a rarity for me.

Damien Chazelle, nominee, best director (“La La Land”)

I’m still trying to catch my breath after this morning. Wow! I’m humbled and honored by the love that you showed “La La Land” today. It’s beyond anything I could have imagined. Here’s to the fools who dream!

Hugh Grant, nominee, best actor-musical or comedy (“Florence Foster Jenkins”)

I’m thrilled to see that my costars, up-and-comer Meryl Streep and the always peerless Simon Helberg, have also been nominated.

Ryan Reynolds, nominee, best actor-comedy or musical (“Deadpool”)

As we speak, the entire “Deadpool” team is engaged in a grotesque, early-morning tickle-fight.

Colin Farrell, nominee, best actor-musical or comedy (“The Lobster”)

HFPA has made being awoken by your publicist at 5 a.m. a really lovely thing! Best alarm call in the world to be told you’ve received a Golden Globe nomination.

Casey Affleck, nominee, best actor-drama (“Manchester by the Sea”)

It will  be my first time to attend the Golden Globes, and I’ve been working for more than 20 years; so this moment isn’t lost on me.

Denzel Washington, nominee, best actor-drama (“Fences”)

What an honor to speak the poetry of August Wilson’s words, then be recognized by the HFPA this morning.

Aaron Taylor-Johnson, nominee, best supporting actor (“Nocturnal Animals”)

Waking up to this news in an early dawn light made going into the darkness to bring this character alive all the more worthwhile.

Simon Helberg, nominee, best supporting actor (“Florence Foster Jenkins”)

This movie is about aiming for the F above high C regardless of what note you may land on. Working on “Florence Foster Jenkins” was a dream come true. Stephen Frears (director) is a visionary, Meryl is a god, and Hugh is unparalleled.

Caitriona Balfe, nominee, best actress, TV series-drama (“Outlander”)

I am so pleased and grateful to be recognized for this portrayal of Claire, a strong-willed, confident, intelligent, empowered and simply unforgettable woman, much like my brilliant fellow nominees.

Mandy Moore, nominee, best supporting actress in a series, limited series or TV movie (“This Is Us”)

I was home and just starting my morning. I was about to make coffee when I saw my phone light up with a text message from my sweet costar, Milo (Ventimiglia), saying, “Congrats” and how proud he was. I didn’t know what he was talking about, so I went on Twitter to see the amazing news!

Lin-Manuel Miranda, nominee, best original song (“How Far I’ll Go” from “Moana”)

Over two years ago, I was lucky enough to have been given my dream job—writing songs for a Disney animated film, alongside the amazing Opetaia Foa’i and Mark Mancina.

E-mail rvnepales_5585@yahoo.com. Follow him at https://twitter.com/nepalesruben.