Nikki Glaser is ready to take the stage as the host of the 2025 Golden Globe Awards, but fans can expect some unscripted moments from the comedian as she balances preparation with her signature improvisational style.
In an exclusive interview with E! Live from the Red Carpet ahead of the Sunday night ceremony at The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California, Glaser, 40, opened up about the meticulous work that’s gone into her hosting gig. “This will be my 94th time telling some version of this monologue,” Glaser shared, referring to the hours of preparation spent perfecting her opening remarks for the star-studded event.
“We’re constantly making edits, trying to top jokes, and making sure we strike the right tone for the evening,” she continued. Despite all the practice, Glaser emphasized that she expects to let loose during her performance. “I really think I might go a little wild because I’m so cozy with it,” she said. “And now I’m suddenly gonna see the people I’m talking about — like, Glen Powell right here. Timothée Chalamet — it’s going to set off something new in my head, for sure.”
Though she’s worked hard to craft a polished monologue, Glaser explained that her true talent lies in her ability to be in the moment. “I practice so much so that when I get up there, I’m off book, and I can just be in it,” she said. “That’s when stuff’s going to start coming out that wasn’t planned.” For Glaser, that ability to ad-lib is what sets her apart from other hosts. “Now I know it so well, I can just be myself up there.”
While she is excited to interact with some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, Glaser couldn’t resist a playful dig at one particular nominee. Joking about actor Glen Powell, 36, who is up for a Golden Globe for his role in Hit Man, she quipped, “He is going to be in the back, and he has to wear sunglasses so he can’t make eye contact with me because it will throw me. I need to stay dry.” Powell laughed off the comment, but it was clear that Glaser is prepared to keep things lighthearted as she balances humor with her hosting duties.
The comedian has always been known for her sharp wit and fearlessness on stage, and it’s no secret that she’s a favorite when it comes to roast-style comedy. However, Glaser assured fans that she’s not out to make enemies. “I’m not out for blood,” she said, referring to her approach with the A-list celebrities in attendance. “I don’t want to ruin their nights, and I certainly don’t want them to remember my name for the wrong reasons.” Glaser has worked hard to craft a hosting persona that walks a fine line between edgy humor and respectful fun, aiming to keep the audience engaged while not going too far.
In a conversation with People magazine last month, Glaser explained that while she is aware of her reputation as a “roast queen,” she doesn’t want anyone in the audience to feel on edge before the show. “I don’t want anyone to go into this feeling like, ‘Oh my God, I have to come up with armor, who does this girl think she is?’” Glaser said. “But it’s still a big, glitzy, glamorous event where people are taking themselves too seriously. So it’s walking a line with them.”
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In fact, one of the biggest challenges Glaser faces as a host is striking a balance between pleasing the Hollywood elite and entertaining viewers at home. “Every joke I write, I want it to be edgy enough to please the people at home. The common man wants me to take down the Hollywood elite — even though we all worship the Hollywood elite — they still want me to put them in their place,” she said.
This balancing act between satire and respect is a hallmark of Glaser’s comedic style. But as she prepares to take on the Golden Globes stage, the comedian is also embracing her role as an ambassador for both humor and humility. “I don’t want to come off as too mean-spirited,” she explained, adding that her goal is to ensure the evening is a celebration — not a roast.
With a history of pushing boundaries while maintaining a sense of fun, Glaser is expected to bring fresh energy to the Golden Globe stage. Fans can expect witty commentary, sharp humor, and a few unexpected moments, as the comedian takes on the daunting task of hosting one of Hollywood’s most glamorous nights.
The 82nd annual Golden Globe Awards will air live from The Beverly Hilton on Sunday, January 5, 2025. The ceremony will be broadcast on CBS and available for streaming on Paramount+.
For more coverage of the Golden Globes and other major award shows, be sure to follow People for live updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.
