Nikki Glaser returned to the stage of the Golden Globes for the second consecutive year on January 11, 2026. Renowned for her sharp humor and roast style, Glaser opened the ceremony with an engaging monologue that targeted various celebrities in attendance. Her ability to blend fun with edgy commentary set the tone for the evening, showcasing her knack for intertwining humor with social observations.
This year, her monologue garnered attention as it included references to a variety of celebrities, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Michael B. Jordan, and Kevin Hart. While her performance received positive feedback, some jokes were omitted, a decision Glaser discussed in a post-show interview.
Jokes that didn’t make the cut
During an appearance on SiriusXM’s Howard Stern Show on January 13, Glaser revealed some punchlines that were ultimately left out of her final performance. She initially planned to take a jab at former President Donald Trump, but chose to omit the reference, stating, “You just don’t say that guy’s name right now.” However, she cleverly referenced the Epstein files during the live show, demonstrating her ability to navigate sensitive topics while maintaining humor.
Celebrity roasts and playful jabs
One humorous line targeted Chase Infiniti, a nominee for best actress, with Glaser comparing her to a bank: “Chase Infiniti is nominated for best actress tonight, and if you apply now, you can earn five percent cash back on all travel bookings through her.” This clever wordplay highlighted Glaser’s sharp wit and her capacity to deliver jokes relevant to the audience.
Another joke aimed at actor Brad Pitt, who was absent from the ceremony, followed a similar theme. Glaser quipped, “When a man turns 60, he gets to play a race car driver, while after 35, every role for a woman is a tired mom who hates her life.” Such lines reflected her awareness of gender dynamics in Hollywood, evoking laughter while subtly critiquing the industry.
Audience engagement and memorable moments
Glaser’s humor served not only as a showcase of her comedic talent but also as a tool for audience engagement. She included playful digs at stars like George Clooney and Dwayne Johnson, illustrating her ability to craft relatable humor that resonated with attendees. For instance, she jokingly asked Clooney if his coffee machines were malfunctioning, a line that elicited laughter and applause.
Celebrity interactions
The interactions between Glaser and the stars were noteworthy, as many of her jokes referenced their public personas and past works. Her quip about DiCaprio, addressing his history of dating younger women, was met with laughter when she remarked, “The most impressive thing is that you accomplished all of that before your girlfriend turned 30.” This balance of humor and critique has become a hallmark of Glaser’s style, allowing her to navigate the fine line between playful and potentially offensive.
Furthermore, her monologue concluded with a heartfelt impersonation of actress Claire Danes, mimicking her emotional performances. This moment highlighted Glaser’s comedic range and her admiration for her peers, reminding the audience that beneath the glamour and glitz lies a community of artists supporting one another.
Nikki Glaser’s performance at the 2026 Golden Globes demonstrated her growth as a comedian. Her ability to deliver sharp jabs while maintaining respect for her subjects showcased her skill in the art of comedy. As she concluded the night, the audience was left with a blend of laughter and insight, reaffirming her selection as host for this prestigious event.