ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JUNE 03: Sean "Diddy" Combs attends Black Tie Affair For Quality Control's CEO Pierre "Pee" Thomas at Fox Theater on June 02, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images)
Nikki Glaser faced immediate criticism following her opening monologue at the 2025 Golden Globe Awards. Her jokes targeting the sexual assault allegations against Sean “Diddy” Combs prompted outrage from legal representatives of Diddy’s accusers.
Glaser’s routine included several references to the ongoing legal case against Diddy, drawing comparisons between the alleged offenses and the sexually charged scenes in the film Challengers. One joke, specifically referencing the absence of “baby oil” at this year’s after-party, was widely criticized as insensitive.
Attorneys representing Diddy’s accusers expressed strong disapproval. Ariel Mitchell stated that trivializing the situation hinders sexual assault victims from coming forward. Tyrone Blackburn echoed this sentiment, suggesting a comedian of Glaser’s stature should possess the skill to find humor without making light of serious crimes like rape and drugging.
Diddy was arrested in September in New York City and faces federal charges related to operating a criminal enterprise involving alleged abuse of women. He has pleaded not guilty, and his trial is scheduled for May 2025. He remains in custody pending the trial.
