Hosting the 82nd Golden Globe Awards, comedian Nikki Glaser took a markedly different approach compared to her usual sharp-edged humor. Instead of delivering scathing roasts, she opted for a more nuanced and respectful tone, blending praise with gentle jabs that left the audience both amused and intrigued.

A Fresh Take on Hollywood's Night of Celebration

A New Chapter for Golden Globes Hosts

Glaser's hosting style marked a departure from previous years. Known for her razor-sharp wit, especially after her unforgettable roast of Tom Brady, Glaser chose to focus on the positive aspects of the evening while still providing moments of levity. Her opening remarks set the tone, as she acknowledged the immense talent in the room but playfully noted their limitations. "You’re all so famous, so talented, so powerful," she said, "except when it comes to telling the country who to vote for." This comment was met with laughter and nods of agreement, reflecting the current political climate.In another moment, Glaser turned to Ariana Grande for support, saying, "Ariana, hold my finger." Such gestures added a personal touch, making the event feel more intimate and relatable. The host also addressed the uncertainty surrounding future elections, adding a layer of reality to the glamorous occasion.

Praise and Gentle Barbs: A Balanced Approach

Throughout the evening, Glaser balanced heartfelt compliments with light-hearted jokes. She praised Zendaya's performances in "Dune" and "Challengers," noting how captivating her scenes were. However, she couldn’t resist a jab at Diddy, comparing his legal troubles to Zendaya's work in "Challengers," which she described as "more sexually charged than Diddy’s credit card." The crowd reacted with a mix of laughter and discomfort, highlighting the delicate balance Glaser maintained between humor and respect.She also made lighthearted comments about the afterparty, suggesting it wouldn't be as exciting as in previous years. "Stanley Tucci freak-off just doesn’t have the same ring to it," she quipped, referencing the lack of baby oil and the abundance of olive oil. These remarks not only entertained the audience but also provided a humorous commentary on the evolving nature of Hollywood events.

Hollywood’s Finest Under the Spotlight

Glaser extended her humor to various nominees and their partners, often using subtle digs to add depth to her jokes. For instance, she commended Nicole Kidman for her 20th nomination and playfully thanked Keith Urban for his contribution to her prolific career. "Keep strumming, you kooky koala," she joked, drawing laughs from the crowd. Similarly, she praised Selena Gomez for her dual nominations, before making an offhand comment about her fiancé Benny Blanco being granted a wish by a genie.Eddie Redmayne’s nomination for "The Day of the Jackal" on Peacock provided another opportunity for Glaser to poke fun at the streaming platform. "I think I’ve seen more actual peacocks in my life than shows on Peacock," she remarked, eliciting chuckles from the audience. She also paid tribute to Tilda Swinton and Timothée Chalamet, complimenting Chalamet’s eyelashes and his portrayal of Bob Dylan, which she humorously claimed was "absolutely horrible."

Turning the Jokes Inward

One of Glaser’s strengths is her ability to turn the spotlight on herself, ensuring that no one feels targeted. During a conversation with Harrison Ford backstage, she recounted asking him whether he preferred working with Zendaya or Ariana Grande, only for him to respond with "Indica." This self-deprecating humor endeared her to the audience, making them feel more connected to the event.She also expressed gratitude to Glen Powell for his extensive body of work, including roles in "Twisters" and "Hitman." In a particularly bold move, she joked about his presence in her thoughts during intimate moments, adding a touch of irreverence to her performance. Such moments showcased Glaser’s willingness to push boundaries while maintaining a sense of decorum.

Celebrating the Best in Film and Television

Ultimately, Glaser’s hosting style celebrated the best in film and television without resorting to harsh criticism. She acknowledged the significance of the nominated works, such as "Wicked," "Queer," and "Nightfish," emphasizing their impact on the industry. "These are not just words Ben Affleck yells after he orgasms," she joked, "but incredible movies nominated tonight."By focusing on the achievements of the nominees and offering gentle commentary, Glaser ensured that the evening remained celebratory and inclusive. Her approach resonated with the audience, proving that comedy can be both respectful and hilarious.