Humor with Heart: Nikki Glaser's Golden Globes Evolution

Behind the Laughter: Nikki Glaser's Heartfelt Hosting at the Golden Globes Redefines Comedy in Celebrity Culture

The 2025 Golden Globes marked a significant moment for comedian Nikki Glaser as she took up the mantle of hosting. Renowned for her sharp wit, Glaser decided to take a different approach this time, opting for a gentler comedic style rather than a full-on roast. On a recent episode of the "Armchair Expert" podcast, she shared that her goal was to create a warm atmosphere rather than an edgy one. Glaser emphasized, "I don’t burn people unless I’m hired to do it," revealing that her repertoire at the Globes was far from the typical roast format. This thoughtful approach reassured both her audience and the celebrities present, including the star-studded couple, Benny Blanco and Selena Gomez.

During her monologue, Glaser delivered a playful jab at Blanco, who was in attendance to support his fiancée, Gomez, nominated for two categories that evening. In a light-hearted moment, she quipped that a genie had granted Benny's wish for Selena's engagement. Her ability to secure Blanco's approval prior to the joke illustrated her awareness of the fine line comedians tread when addressing sensitive topics involving celebrities. To ensure her joke landed well, she consulted with actor Eric Andre, leading to a series of text exchanges where she even sent Blanco a voice note of the planned quip. Blanco responded positively, but requested to discuss it with Selena first—a sentiment indicative of the mutual respect shared among these stars.

Blanco and Gomez later confirmed their engagement in December 2024, after dating for over a year, adding a delightful relevance to Glaser's joke. Her meticulous consideration of their feelings underscores an evolving trend in celebrity culture: the importance of consent, even in comedic scenarios. Before taking the stage, Glaser took advice from fellow comedian Jimmy Kimmel, who urged her to reach out to celebrities before crafting potentially risky jokes. This guidance proved fruitful, allowing her to navigate the dance of humor without stepping on any toes, a testament to her professionalism in the industry.

Beyond the responses from Blanco and Gomez, other celebrities expressed their approval of Glaser's debut at the Golden Globes. Notably, actor Glen Powell reacted positively to a cheeky line about his successful year, where Glaser remarked on his roles in films like "Twisters" and "Hitman." “Thank you so much for the assist,” she said, leaving the audience in stitches. Powell himself took to Instagram to share his delight, posting a snapshot of him laughing during her remarks with a simple caption: “@nikkiglaser CRUSHED,” complete with a series of enthusiastic emojis. Such moments reflect a growing camaraderie among celebrities, where they appreciate the humor while fostering an atmosphere of collective celebration.

Further highlighting the supportive environment during the event, Glaser revealed that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson took the time to visit her dressing room after the show. This gesture of kindness, where he congratulated her amidst the post-show excitement, showcases the back-stage camaraderie among Hollywood's elite. “He came by after everyone was in the room. We were all kind of celebrating,” she recalled, demonstrating how Glaser's humor resonated with the industry as a whole. Recognizing her efforts, Johnson’s acknowledgment served as a hallmark of a successful evening.

Overall, Nikki Glaser's hosting journey at the Golden Globes reflects a significant evolution in the world of comedy and celebrity culture. By embracing a more respectful form of humor, she managed to entertain and engage while respecting the boundaries of those she joked about. Her careful placement of jokes, strategic communication with her subjects, and the supportive responses from fellow celebrities highlight a shift towards a more thoughtful and inclusive entertainment landscape. Glaser’s historic moment at the Golden Globes redefined what it means to be a comedian at such revered events, blending humor with a profound understanding of personal relationships in the entertainment industry.

As award shows continue to evolve, Glaser’s approach offers a blueprint for future hosts, emphasizing the importance of connection in comedy. By striking a balance between wit and respect, she not only entertained but also fostered an environment where stars could feel comfortable and appreciated. The camaraderie displayed among attendees, and their reactions to Glaser’s jokes signal a broader cultural shift, where humor does not come at the cost of compassion. For fans of the celebrity world, her iconic performance at the Golden Globes will undoubtedly be remembered as a significant milestone, shedding light on how humor can coexist harmoniously with the intricacies of celebrity life.