Nikki Glaser’s Successful Golden Globes Hosting Gig
Nikki Glaser delivered a successful hosting performance. From her opening remarks, referencing “Ozempic’s biggest night,” she established a tone balancing humor, self-deprecation, and wit, appealing to both viewers and the in-person audience. Known for her sharp humor, Glaser reassured nominees she wouldn’t roast them, playfully adding that their power extended to almost anything except endorsing political candidates. She briefly acknowledged the prevailing political unease, concluding with a humorous uncertainty about the future.
The Golden Globes have a history of unconventional comedic hosts. Glaser, notably the first solo female host, aligns with this tradition. With over a decade in the public eye, encompassing stand-up, film roles, and TV shows like her reality dating show, 2024 marked her most prominent year. Her viral performance roasting Tom Brady for Netflix solidified her comedic reach. Her HBO special, Someday You’ll Die, nominated for a Globe (which it won), showcases her willingness to tackle controversial topics.
However, awards shows require a different comedic approach. Past hosts, like Jo Koy, have faltered by appearing unprepared. In contrast, Glaser, announced months in advance, meticulously developed her material, refining jokes through numerous live performances. Understanding audience expectations, she recognized the need to balance her usual edgy style with material suitable for the broadcast and the celebrity audience.
Her monologue was clever and engaging, showcasing genuine enthusiasm. Her jabs at celebrities were gentle yet well-crafted, such as her comment about a celebrity’s “gorgeous eyelashes—on your upper lip.” Her playful critique of another’s performance was similarly subtle and humorous.
Glaser effectively used the absurdity of streaming services and political anxieties to generate laughter. Her observations about the streaming landscape were aptly described as “the most audacious film to ever autoplay after Is It Cake?”. She incorporated political humor without being overly heavy-handed, making relevant connections to nominated TV shows.
Her interstitial segments were brief and effective. A planned musical number was cleverly aborted with a staged phone call from her team. A spontaneous joke highlighting Mario Lopez’s numerous mentions by award winners showcased her improvisational skills. Even a short final segment, describing a musician as the “former drummer for System of a Down,” provided a memorable moment.
Comedians often either treat awards shows like a regular stand-up performance or deliver bland, inoffensive material. Glaser successfully navigated this challenge, adapting her style without sacrificing her unique voice. A joke she shared, comparing a celebrity’s presence in numerous films to her own head during sex, showcases the successful adaptation of her comedic style for the event.