Who Hosted the 2025 Golden Globes? Nikki Glaser’s Historic Turn

Glaser’s Sharp Wit Brings Fresh Energy to the 82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards

Comedian Nikki Glaser etched her name in awards show history Tuesday night, becoming the first solo female comedian to host the 82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards. Her signature sharp wit and often raunchy humor brought a fresh, if sometimes unexpected, energy to the Beverly Hilton on January 5, 2025, where Hollywood’s elite gathered to celebrate the year’s achievements in film and television. The event, broadcast on CBS and streamed on Paramount+, marked a bold move by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) to revitalize the awards ceremony following past controversies.

From Stand-Up to the Globes: Glaser’s Rise to Host

Glaser’s selection as host was perhaps a surprise to some, but her rise in the comedy world has been steady and impressive. Her 2024 stand-up special, “Nikki Glaser: Someday You’ll Die,” which earned a Golden Globe nomination (ultimately losing to Ali Wong), showcased her comedic prowess to a wider audience. Earlier in 2025, Glaser further solidified her reputation with a widely praised roast of Tom Brady, demonstrating her ability to handle high-pressure situations and hold her own amongst A-list celebrities. These experiences likely played a significant role in the HFPA’s decision to tap her for the hosting gig, suggesting a calculated gamble to inject new life into the awards show with a fresh, albeit edgy, comedic voice.

A Night of Roasts and Revelations: Highlights of Glaser’s Performance

Glaser’s opening monologue was a rapid-fire succession of witty one-liners targeting a range of celebrities, from Ozempic users to Timothée Chalamet, Selena Gomez, and her then-fiancé, Benny Blanco. Ben Affleck’s post-intimacy facial expressions, Glen Powell’s omnipresence in films that year, and even superstars like Zendaya and Ariana Grande were not spared from her playful jabs. This “roasting” style, a hallmark of Glaser’s comedic brand, was likely anticipated by many viewers, adding to the anticipation surrounding her performance.

Perhaps the most talked-about moment of the night was Glaser’s “Pope-ular” musical number, a bizarre, short-lived parody blending “Wicked” and imagery of the Papal Conclave. The performance, abruptly cut short mid-song with Glaser miming a note from producers, left some viewers bewildered, while others found the awkwardness ironically hilarious. Whether a deliberate comedic misfire or a genuine production hiccup, the incident quickly became a viral talking point, fueling online discussions and adding to the overall buzz surrounding Glaser’s hosting debut.

Beyond the roasts and the musical interlude, Glaser also managed to weave in some social commentary, subtly remarking on the apparent lack of religious references in acceptance speeches. This observation about Hollywood’s seemingly secular environment, especially during awards season, offered a thought-provoking contrast to the often-professed humility of the winners.

A Mixed Reception, But a Historic Moment

Critical and audience reactions to Glaser’s performance were varied. Some lauded her bold humor and willingness to push boundaries, while others felt her jokes sometimes missed the mark. The “Pope-ular” performance, in particular, drew polarized responses. This range of reactions is likely a testament to Glaser’s unique comedic style, which can be both divisive and captivating.

Regardless of individual opinions, Glaser’s performance undoubtedly made the 2025 Golden Globes a night to remember. Her historic role as the first solo female comedian to host the event shattered a long-standing barrier in the entertainment industry, potentially paving the way for greater representation and diversity in future award shows. The HFPA’s decision to embrace Glaser’s distinct comedic voice may indicate a broader shift towards more unconventional and risk-taking choices in awards show hosting, potentially redefining what audiences expect and appreciate in these high-profile events.