In a candid conversation with Howard Stern, comedian Nikki Glaser revealed several unreleased jokes from her hosting stint at the 2025 Golden Globe Awards. The monologue, which celebrated notable figures and cultural moments, had its fair share of cuts due to content sensitivity. Glaser shared these off-the-record gems, providing insight into the rigorous process of crafting an awards show.

Discover the Hidden Humor Behind the Glamour

The Art of Crafting a Golden Globes Monologue

The preparation for a major event like the Golden Globes is no small feat. Glaser meticulously rehearsed every joke in her opening monologue, ensuring each line was polished and ready for prime time. She highlighted the night's theme around "Ozempic," a popular medication, before moving on to humorous takes on celebrities such as Ben Affleck and Sean “Diddy” Combs. However, not all jokes made it to air. Some were deemed too risky or simply didn't fit the flow of the evening. Glaser explained that while she loved the humor, certain punchlines required a more intimate setting, like her chat with Stern.In discussing Nicole Kidman, who was nominated for her role in "Babygirl," Glaser admitted to a joke that nearly aired but was ultimately pulled. It referenced Kidman’s behavior after enjoying a couple of glasses of wine. Although Glaser believed Kidman would have taken it in stride, the team decided against including it to avoid any potential backlash. This decision underscores the delicate balance between delivering sharp humor and maintaining respect for the audience and nominees alike.

Unspoken Stories: Celebrities Left Out of the Limelight

Alec Baldwin, notably absent from the ceremony, also received a joke that never saw the light of day. Glaser crafted a witty remark about Baldwin’s absence, linking it to his controversial past. The joke played on Michael Keaton’s performance in "Beetlejuice" and suggested that Baldwin was too busy creating ghosts rather than portraying one. Despite its comedic appeal, the team opted to leave it out, recognizing the sensitive nature surrounding Baldwin’s recent legal troubles.Nicolas Cage, a multiple Golden Globe winner, also faced a near-miss joke during the event. Glaser considered poking fun at Cage’s eccentricities, referencing his alleged habit of sleeping in Elvis Presley’s coffin. Another jest involved imagining Cage being accompanied by a band of skeletons playing ragtime jazz. While these ideas showcased Cage’s unique persona, they were ultimately shelved to maintain the show’s tone and avoid any unintended controversy.

Podcast Parody: Dax Shepard’s Celebrity Magnetism

Dax Shepard, known for hosting the “Armchair Expert” podcast, attended the Golden Globes with his wife, Kristen Bell. Glaser toyed with the idea of teasing Shepard’s ability to attract high-profile guests for his show. The joke implied that the Golden Globes offered a rare opportunity for celebrities to mingle without the looming possibility of being invited onto Shepard’s podcast. Though clever, this joke was also cut, emphasizing the need to keep the focus on celebrating achievements rather than making light of personal endeavors.

Legal Drama: The Inclusion of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, currently facing serious legal charges, was another figure whose presence—or lack thereof—inspired a discarded joke. Glaser contemplated mentioning the impending trial and how it might affect the social dynamics among attendees. Stern questioned why this particular joke didn’t make the final cut. Glaser explained that using multiple references to Diddy could lead to misinterpretation and unwanted attention. Instead, they chose a single, carefully crafted mention that avoided implicating others present at the event.

Timeless Talent: Honoring Legends in Comedy

The cast of “Only Murders in the Building,” including Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Meryl Streep, were all nominated for their outstanding performances. Glaser admired their continued success and dedication to their craft. She even joked about the financial motivations behind their relentless work ethic, hinting at possible involvement in crypto schemes. While this joke remained unspoken, it reflected the admiration for these legends and their enduring contributions to entertainment. Their resilience and talent continue to inspire audiences and fellow performers alike.