What Are Nikki Glaser's Funniest Jokes from the Golden Globes?

Nikki Glaser's return as host of the Golden Globes was marked by a sharp and witty opening monologue that playfully roasted a variety of celebrities in the audience. Her humour, which ranged from playful jabs at Hollywood’s elite to clever takes on recent events in film and television, set an entertaining tone for the evening.

Last updated: 15 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Nikki Glaser's hosting of the Golden Globes has sparked a renewed interest in the event, especially with her blend of sharp wit and self-deprecation. Her opening remarks not only entertained the star-studded audience but also provided commentary on the current state of Hollywood, addressing the absurdities of celebrity culture and the entertainment industry. The jokes resonated with many, showcasing Glaser's ability to engage with both the crowd and viewers at home.

Key takeaways

Nikki Glaser's humour was a mix of self-deprecation and pointed observations about Hollywood.
Her jokes touched on various topics, including celebrity culture and the film industry.
Glaser's performance received positive reactions from the audience, highlighting her comedic timing and delivery.

Timeline: how we got here

The Golden Globes have a storied history, but Glaser's return represents a shift towards a more comedic and less formal approach in recent years. In 2022, the awards faced criticism for their lack of diversity, leading to significant changes in their voting body and process. Glaser's hosting this year reflects an effort to rejuvenate interest in the awards, bringing in a fresh perspective amid ongoing industry changes.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Glaser's opening monologue introduced a series of new jokes that resonated with both the audience and viewers, managing to combine humour with poignant observations about the film industry and celebrity culture.

What was already established

The Golden Globes have historically been a platform for celebrities to showcase their talents while also allowing for comedic commentary on their lives. Glaser's approach fits within this tradition, continuing the legacy of hosts who blend humour and critique.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The Golden Globes, while primarily an American event, influence global media consumption trends. Viewers in the UK often follow the winners and nominees closely, impacting demand for films and series featured at the awards. Glaser's humorous take may encourage more viewers to engage with the nominated works, potentially boosting UK audiences for those films and shows.

Businesses and jobs

The entertainment industry in the UK is closely tied to trends set by American awards shows. As celebrities promote their films and shows during events like the Golden Globes, UK-based production companies and distributors may see increased interest and investment in similar projects.

Policy and regulation

The Golden Globes also reflect broader trends in Hollywood that can influence UK film and television policy. Issues such as representation and diversity are increasingly at the forefront of awards discussions, which could lead to changes in funding and support for diverse projects within the UK film industry.

Numbers that matter

21 jokes delivered by Nikki Glaser during her opening monologue, showcasing her comedic range.
3 Golden Globe wins for Leonardo DiCaprio, highlighting his status in Hollywood.
6 years since significant film productions were made in Los Angeles, according to Glaser's jokes.

Definitions and jargon buster

Golden Globes: An annual awards ceremony that recognises excellence in film and television, presented by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association.
A-listers: Celebrities who are at the top of the entertainment industry's hierarchy, typically associated with major film and television projects.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate aftermath of the Golden Globes, film and television audiences will likely see increased media coverage of nominated works, as well as a surge in viewership for shows and films that received awards or nominations.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Producers and studios may start strategising their marketing efforts based on the success of nominees and winners at the Golden Globes, potentially leading to new projects and collaborations emerging from the buzz generated by the event.

Signals to watch

Viewership numbers for the Golden Globes broadcast.
Box office returns for films that received awards or nominations.
Social media engagement related to the event and its participants.

Practical guidance

Do

Follow up on nominated films and shows to stay informed about cultural trends.
Engage with discussions around the Golden Globes to understand industry dynamics.

Don’t

Dismiss the influence of awards shows on public interest in film and television.
Ignore the importance of representation and diversity in entertainment discussions.

Checklist

Check out the Golden Globes winners and nominees list.
Watch films and shows that gained attention during the awards.
Engage with online discussions about the event and its implications for the industry.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Nikki Glaser's performance received acclaim, the reception of such humour can vary widely among audiences. Some may find certain jokes off-putting or controversial, especially in an industry sensitive to issues of representation and societal norms. Furthermore, the broader implications of awards shows on the industry remain under scrutiny, particularly regarding diversity and inclusion efforts.

Bottom line

Nikki Glaser's hosting of the Golden Globes demonstrated the potential for humour to address serious topics in the entertainment industry. Her performance not only entertained but also highlighted ongoing discussions about celebrity culture and the challenges faced by the film and television sectors in the UK and beyond.

FAQs

What is the significance of the Golden Globes?

The Golden Globes are a key awards show that recognise excellence in film and television, influencing trends and viewership worldwide, including in the UK.

Who hosted the Golden Globes this year?

Nikki Glaser hosted the Golden Globes this year, delivering a memorable opening monologue filled with humour and commentary on the industry.

How can audiences engage with the Golden Globes post-event?

Audiences can engage with the Golden Globes by watching nominated films and shows, following discussions on social media, and reflecting on the event's impact on the entertainment industry.