Comedian Nikki Glaser has sparked significant controversy following her recent appearance on Saturday Night Live, where she made jokes regarding sensitive topics including sex trafficking and pedophilia. During her nearly nine-minute opening monologue, aired on October 7, 2023, Glaser’s remarks drew immediate backlash from viewers and critics alike.
Glaser began her monologue by welcoming the audience to New York City, referring to the city as the “original island” of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. She stated, “I’ve been obsessed with slavery recently,” while discussing experiences at nail salons and human trafficking awareness signs found in public restrooms. Her comments included a quip about the separation of customers at nail salons, suggesting, “You can go to the nail salon with a friend, but you get separated at the border.”
As she continued, Glaser highlighted the prevalence of human trafficking awareness posters in women’s restrooms, remarking, “They’re in every stall. They’re in every world language.” She contrasted this with what she perceived to be a lack of similar warnings in men’s bathrooms, suggesting a disparity in awareness.
In a segment that further intensified reactions, Glaser referenced the fears of Gen Z surrounding trafficking, contrasting them with her own experiences from her twenties. “I didn’t think it would be a career,” she stated, reflecting on her early years in the industry. She also made a comparison to Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s former associate, humorously noting that her younger friends believe she possesses a “resting Ghislaine face.”
The monologue also included a troubling anecdote about her four-year-old nephew, which many found inappropriate. Glaser shared her discomfort when her sister allowed the child to shower with her, jokingly questioning, “What if I molest him?” This particular jest was met with swift criticism on social media, prompting several users to express their disapproval.
One critic on the platform X stated, “Is #NikkiGlaser really that braindead in 2025?” Another user commented, “Nikki is always hilarious and edgy, but this wasn’t the right audience.” Others echoed similar sentiments, labeling the jokes as distasteful and questioning how they made it past the show’s censors.
Conversely, some defenders of Glaser argued that her jokes brought attention to critical issues surrounding trafficking and the potential for abuse within families. They appreciated her candid approach to discussing difficult subjects.
Representatives for Glaser and NBC did not respond to requests for comment regarding the backlash.
As the debate continues, Glaser’s monologue serves as a reminder of the thin line comedians often tread when addressing sensitive topics, even in the realm of satire. The incident has reignited discussions about the appropriateness of humor in addressing serious social issues, leaving audiences divided on the effectiveness and sensitivity of Glaser’s approach.
