Nikki Glaser, host of the 2026 Golden Globes, revealed she removed several jokes from the broadcast, including those aimed at Brad Pitt, who was absent from the ceremony and not nominated. The comedian chose to lighten the mood despite her initial plans to roast the actor during the Jan. 11 event in Los Angeles.
Glaser explained her approach on Sirius XM’s The Howard Stern Show on Jan. 13, joking about Pitt’s latest role while addressing Hollywood’s ageism, particularly the difference in roles available to men and women as they age. Despite cutting jokes about Pitt, she found humor in his performance as a racecar driver in the film F1, commenting on his constant use of a blinker during driving scenes. However, these remarks were ultimately not aired during the ceremony.
The Decisions Behind the Cut Jokes
During the Golden Globes, Glaser also admitted leaving out quips about some other celebrities after gauging audience reactions and public sensitivities. She shared a playful line involving Chase Infiniti, star of One Battle After Another (OBAA), about earning cashback on travel bookings in a way that didn’t make the final cut. Glaser humorously linked Chase Infiniti’s real name with a joke about Sean Penn, another OBAA cast member, which she also spared from the broadcast.
Glaser was especially cautious with jokes directed at presenter Julia Roberts. On CBS Mornings, she shared her experience testing material in Los Angeles comedy clubs, noting the difficulty of making fun of “America’s Sweetheart.” She described the rigorous effort to refine any joke about Roberts to avoid offending, mentioning the unexpected boos she received during early performances that left her questioning if Roberts was present.
As the ceremony host, Glaser emphasized her careful balance between poking fun at celebrities and ensuring no one’s night was spoiled. She said,
“You have to be very delicate about making jokes that aren’t going to ruin anyone’s night, but you also want to give the people at home something to laugh at, and you want to poke fun at the people that they’re dying for you to make fun of. People at home want you to make fun of the A-listers.”
— Nikki Glaser, Comedian
Highlighting Memorable Celebrity Moments from the Night
Throughout the event, many star-studded moments captured attention beyond Glaser’s monologue. Leonardo DiCaprio and Owen Cooper received widespread enthusiasm, with Cooper winning Best Supporting Male Actor in a TV Series, further solidifying their status in Hollywood’s current inner circle.
Teyana Taylor claimed a surprise victory over Ariana Grande in the Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture category, impressing audiences with her performance in One Battle After Another. Meanwhile, Timothée Chalamet celebrated his first Golden Globe win in Kylie Jenner’s company, securing Best Lead Actor in a Motion Picture, Comedy or Musical, for his role in Marty Supreme.
Jacob Elordi, despite not winning, shared lighthearted moments with co-star Ana de Armas from Deep Water. Meanwhile, Hollywood icons Julia Roberts and George Clooney made an elegant pair, sparking interest even though both are married to different partners. The evening also showcased the energy of Miles Caton, Kevin Hart, Seth Rogen, and Michael B. Jordan – a notable gathering of industry heavyweights.
Orlando Bloom seemed to stand out as the night’s “coolest guy,” garnering whispered admiration from attendees. Leonardo DiCaprio and Julia Roberts, known for their close Hollywood ties, exchanged insider jokes during Roberts’s presentation of the Best Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy award to One Battle After Another, underscoring their place in the industry’s elite circle.
Rising Stars and Industry Veterans Share the Spotlight
Marlon Wayans shared a special moment with members of the Kpop Demon Hunters voice cast, highlighting the blending of mainstream and international audience appeals. Kristen Bell teased director Jon M. Chu with a promise to star in his next musical project, reflecting a collaborative spirit among Golden Globes guests.
Selena Gomez was seen enjoying time with Benny Blanco, Martin Short, and Steve Martin, capturing a casual “besties” photo that drew attention for its warmth and camaraderie. The White Lotus reunion with Patrick Schwarzenegger and Parker Posey was notably relaxed, with no signs of the usual awards show stress.
Jennifer Lawrence made a brief, affectionate visit to Kylie Jenner’s table, offering support during an award moment, exemplifying how personal connections often weave through the professional celebrations. Eva Victor, director and star of Sorry, Baby, expressed admiration for Jessie Buckley before Buckley took home the Best Actress in a Motion Picture, Drama for her role in Hamnet.
Veteran Performers and New Winners Reflect on Success
Noah Wyle, who recently added a Best Actor in a Drama Series Golden Globe to his collection, reflected on the serendipity and good fortune of his career, humorously joking about surpassing George Clooney in doctor roles. Teyana Taylor’s emotional reaction to her surprise victory highlighted the profound personal significance awards still hold amidst the glitz.
Justin Hartley was spotted checking in on Sterling K. Brown’s recovery progress, months after Brown appeared at the Emmys with a leg injury, signaling ongoing support within the acting community. Meanwhile, Kate Hudson and Jennifer Lopez exchanged warm wishes, embodying a sense of mutual respect among top-tier stars.
