LOS ANGELES — As the Golden Globes ceremony approaches, comedian Nikki Glaser confronts an unexpected comedic hurdle: crafting the perfect joke about Hollywood icon Julia Roberts. The host, who earned widespread acclaim for her celebrity-roasting monologue at last year’s event, finds Roberts particularly challenging material despite her proven track record of handling A-list targets.
“She’s been the toughest nut to crack,” Glaser acknowledged during a recent interview, expressing determination to solve the comedic puzzle before Sunday’s CBS broadcast from the Beverly Hilton. Roberts, nominated for Best Actress in a Drama for “After the Hunt,” will be seated prominently in the audience, presenting both opportunity and pressure for the host.
The comedian revealed that test audiences have reacted unexpectedly defensively toward even mild jokes about Roberts. “People do not have a sense of humor about Julia Roberts,” Glaser observed. “She’ll be fine—other people are not fine on her behalf. The most innocent joke about her that I tried out prompted booing and jeering.”
Glaser’s preparation involves extensive testing at Southern California comedy clubs, where she refines material through audience feedback. “I live and die by those crowds,” she explained. “They tell me what to keep and what not to. Things that I think will kill sometimes get nothing, while throwaway lines become the best jokes.”
Among other anticipated targets are Timothée Chalamet (nominated for “Marty Supreme”), George Clooney (“Jay Kelly”), Michael B. Jordan (“Sinners”), and Leonardo DiCaprio (“One Battle After Another”). Regarding DiCaprio, Glaser teased: “Leo? We’re going to hit Leo. The icebergs are coming. Watch out.”
The host remains adaptable to current events, recently monitoring the Venezuela situation as potential monologue material, though she notes award show audiences may not share news awareness with writers. Glaser’s approach balances affectionate teasing with sharp wit, reminiscent of last year’s successful “Wicked” joke that celebrated the film’s LGBTQ+ appeal without crossing into meanness.