Nikki Glaser isn’t afraid to aim her jokes at Hollywood royalty—but this time, she’s promising to keep it original.
Ahead of her return to host the 2026 Golden Globe Awards, Glaser told People she’s done recycling the same old Leonardo DiCaprio punchlines. “I’m not going to rehash those Leo jokes we’ve all heard a million times,” she said. “That ship has sailed. We need something new.”
The comedian, who’s gearing up for her second consecutive year at the Globes, says she’s determined to reinvent the celebrity roast—especially when it comes to one of Hollywood’s most meme-worthy stars. “My goal is always to subvert expectations,” she explained. “I want to surprise people, to go left when they think I’m going right.”
At 51, DiCaprio remains an irresistible subject for awards show humor, but Glaser insists she’ll take a smarter approach. “The challenge is finding a new angle on Leo that’s funny without being cruel,” she said. “He’s a legend, and I have so much respect for his work—that actually gives me more room to joke.”
Glaser teased that she’s looking beyond Leo’s infamous dating life and will focus on fresh, playful material that connects both in the room and with viewers at home. “Leo’s vape pen is practically a celebrity in its own right at this point,” she joked. “Can’t wait to see what flavor he’s rocking this year.”
In addition to DiCaprio, Glaser hinted that her monologue will feature new targets and up-to-the-minute references. She’s also eyeing opportunities to mine humor from the evolving entertainment landscape—like the Golden Globes’ first-ever recognition of podcasts. “That’s comedy gold waiting to be mined,” she quipped.
Returning to the Beverly Hilton stage on January 11, Glaser says she’s more confident, more daring, and ready to deliver a sharper show. “The room’s going to be electric,” she said. “It’s still surreal that I’ll be standing in front of all those A-listers again. Last year was the most exhilarating night of my career—and this year, I’m swinging even harder.”
The 83rd annual Golden Globe Awards air live Sunday, January 11 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS and stream on Paramount+.
