Nikki Glaser on Feeling ‘Deeply Unlovable,’ Her Addiction to Approval and Burning Desire to Host ‘SNL’

As a dedicated movie buff and avid follower of comedy, I can’t help but be captivated by Nikki Glaser‘s recent rise to fame. Her electrifying nine-minute roast of Tom Brady during Netflix’s “The Roast of Tom Brady” left an indelible mark on audiences and critics alike, a moment she described as a nerve-wracking balancing act that felt like a high-wire act with no room for error.


In the span of just nine minutes during her twenty-year comedy tenure, Nikki Glaser gained significant attention with her hilarious roast of Tom Brady in May. This performance left nearly everyone in awe, whether they were watching at home or live in the audience. For Nikki, this experience was unprecedented and she expressed that she doubts she will ever encounter such a moment again. Though it seemed effortless and cool on the outside, internally, her nerves were skyrocketing.

“She was doing great but felt uneasy, knowing she couldn’t let up yet. Her mind warned her not to celebrate prematurely while she continued delivering sharp jokes at the ‘The Roast of Tom Brady’ event on Netflix.”

In this brief moment, you must shine without fault since it’s a live performance, with countless spectators watching intently. Each joke required meticulous preparation, making the experience feel akin to walking a tightrope. The instant I delivered the final punchline and took my seat, it seemed almost surreal.

Nikki Glaser on Feeling ‘Deeply Unlovable,’ Her Addiction to Approval and Burning Desire to Host ‘SNL’

People suddenly began talking about her name extensively, and those who hadn’t heard of her before became acquainted. Coincidentally, she achieved success once again within a short period – her HBO comedy special titled “Someday You’ll Die” was released and turned out to be another massive hit. The timely recognition came after a long phase of feeling unremarkable for Glaser.

The comedian acknowledges that feeling mediocre is a familiar experience for her. She admits that despite her desire for recognition, when she receives it, she reflexively doubts herself and searches for reasons to invalidate her success. “I get uncomfortable when people like me,” she admits, “and I start questioning if I’ve somehow tricked them or if there’s something I’ve done to undeservingly gain their approval.”

According to Glaser, comedians generally don’t come from a boastful attitude of “I’m fantastic! Look at me!” Instead, it’s more about questioning oneself – “Am I fantastic? Will you look at me? Do I truly deserve your attention?” This feeling is new to her as she has only recently embraced the critical and societal acclaim – “I’ve finally allowed myself to appreciate it. But I won’t let it define my happiness or make me overly dependent on it, because this recognition can fade away.”

In a different perspective, she is confident in sharing that humor brings comfort to her by alleviating feelings of isolation.

“Comedians find humor appealing because it brings love and validation. Essentially, we’re hooked on the affirmation.”

Nikki Glaser on Feeling ‘Deeply Unlovable,’ Her Addiction to Approval and Burning Desire to Host ‘SNL’

In the comic “Someday You’ll Die” by Glazer, she explores heavy themes such as abortion and suicide. She admits to having a melancholic disposition, harboring unusual thoughts, and battling depression throughout her life. However, she found solace in comedy, which enabled her to express and magnify these aspects of herself. When people laugh at or with her during performances, she experiences moments of validation and acceptance, helping her cope with feelings of deep unlovability that she frequently encounters. Essentially, comedy serves as a way for her to connect with others and receive small doses of affection that she yearns for.

Yes, the past few months have been remarkable for her, and if she could also host “Saturday Night Live,” it would be the perfect cap to her career.

She’s shared her long-standing affection for the show and respect for its current cast. She’s not holding her breath for a call, but if one comes her way, she’ll enthusiastically accept it. It’s a bittersweet feeling, as she craves the opportunity yet fears the challenges that come with it. After all, acting is a profession filled with tough experiences.

Loren Michaels, are you listening?

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2024-07-18 20:20