Nikki Glaser’s SNL Monologue Sparks Outrage Ahead of Golden Globes Return

Comedian Nikki Glaser ignited a firestorm with her debut Saturday Night Live monologue. The November 8, 2025, broadcast featured jokes about sex trafficking and Jeffrey Epstein. This controversy arrives just weeks before she is set to host the 2026 Golden Globes for a second consecutive year.

The performance has divided audiences and critics alike. It raises fresh questions about the boundaries of comedy in modern entertainment.

Breaking Down the Controversial Jokes

Glaser opened her set with a joke calling New York City “Epstein’s original island.” The line drew audible gasps from the studio audience. She then extended the bit to critique human trafficking awareness posters found in public restrooms.

According to Reuters, the monologue included a joke about her “resting Ghislaine face.” Glaser claimed her Gen Z friends feel safer with her because she looks like a “madam.” This specific remark triggered intense backlash across social media platforms.

Many viewers found the material deeply insensitive. They argued it made light of serious criminal exploitation. The online response was swift and overwhelmingly critical of the comedian’s chosen topics.

Industry Reaction and Career Implications

Despite the controversy, industry support for Glaser appears strong. The Golden Globes confirmed her return as host months before the SNL appearance. This signals confidence in her comedic style from network executives.

Glaser’s career has been on a steep upward trajectory. Her acclaimed 2024 Netflix roast of Tom Brady established her as a top-tier comic. She made history as the first solo female host of the Golden Globes in 2025.

The entertainment industry now watches closely. Her upcoming Hulu special, taped in October 2025, will be scrutinized for similar material. How she addresses the backlash at the January 2026 Globes remains uncertain.

Nikki Glaser’s SNL monologue has undoubtedly cemented her status as a boundary-pushing comedian, setting the stage for a highly anticipated Golden Globes hosting return where all eyes will be on her opening lines.

Thought you’d like to know

What jokes did Nikki Glaser tell on SNL?

Her monologue included jokes about Jeffrey Epstein and sex trafficking awareness posters. She also referenced having “resting Ghislaine face,” which compared her appearance to Epstein’s accomplice.

Is Nikki Glaser still hosting the Golden Globes?

Yes, she is confirmed to host the 83rd Annual Golden Globes on January 11, 2026. This will mark her second consecutive year as solo host of the ceremony.

How did people react to her SNL monologue?

The reaction was largely negative on social media platforms. Many viewers found the subject matter inappropriate and offensive, sparking widespread criticism online.

Has Nikki Glaser responded to the backlash?

As of now, she has not made any public statements addressing the controversy. The comedian has typically stood by her edgy comedic style in past interviews.

What other projects does Nikki Glaser have coming?

She has a new comedy special scheduled for release on Hulu. The special was taped in October 2025, though an exact release date hasn’t been announced.