UPDATE: Standup comedian Nikki Glaser is facing intense backlash after making controversial jokes about sex trafficking and pedophilia in her recent Saturday Night Live monologue. The performance aired on November 4, 2025, and has sparked outrage across social media platforms.
In her nearly nine-minute opening skit, Glaser welcomed viewers to New York City, jokingly referring to it as the “original island” of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Her remarks quickly escalated as she discussed sensitive topics like slavery and human trafficking, stating, “You can go to the nail salon with a friend, but you get separated at the border.” This line drew immediate criticism, with many questioning the appropriateness of her humor.
Glaser, 41, continued to poke fun at serious issues, highlighting the warning signs for human trafficking found in women’s restrooms. “Every time you go to a public women’s restroom… there’s always a poster on the back of the stall that’s asking you if you’re being trafficked,” she said, adding that such signs are absent in men’s bathrooms. Her attempt to blend dark humor with social commentary has left many feeling unsettled.
The comedian even drew comparisons between herself and Epstein’s former associate Ghislaine Maxwell, claiming her friends believe she has a “resting Ghislaine face,” implying that traffickers might mistake her for their “madam.” This comment, along with her jokes about her four-year-old nephew, has led to further outrage. “What if I molest him?” she recalled asking her sister, a comment that many found deeply disturbing.
Critics wasted no time voicing their disapproval on social media platforms. One user declared, “Is #NikkiGlaser really that braindead in 2025?” while another commented that her edgy humor was inappropriate for the SNL audience. Several others echoed similar sentiments, calling the monologue “disgusting” and questioning how it made it past producers.
Despite the backlash, some defended Glaser, suggesting that she aimed to raise awareness about trafficking and the complexities of familial relationships. “She gave awareness to resources if one was being trafficked,” one supporter argued.
This incident follows a troubling history with Epstein, who died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial for child sex trafficking, and Maxwell, who was convicted of similar charges in 2021 and sentenced to twenty years in prison.
As the story develops, the conversation surrounding Glaser’s monologue continues to gain traction. Critics and supporters alike are weighing in on the appropriateness of using such sensitive topics for comedic purposes.
Next steps: Watch for further reactions from Glaser’s representatives and NBC, as well as potential updates from advocacy groups concerned about the implications of her remarks. The discussion surrounding dark humor’s place in mainstream media is likely to continue as audiences grapple with the impact of her jokes.
