Nikki Glaser Channels Viral ‘Wicked’ Meme With Ariana Grande’s Help to Kick Off Golden Globes

Host Nikki Glaser was holding space at the start of the 2025 Golden Globes on Sunday (Jan. 5), as she kicked off the show with her monologue — and she got a little bit of help from the stars of Wicked.

While joking about how Hollywood has the power to do anything — except convince people who to vote for, apparently — the comedian looked into the star-studded crowd at the Grand Ballroom of the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif., and quipped that there may not be another election. “I’m scared. Ariana, hold my finger, thank you!” she said, reaching out to Ariana Grande, who was sitting next to co-star Cynthia Erivo.

The singer-actress — who plays Glinda in the box-office smash — reached out toward the host with her white-gloved hand, but Erivo (who portrays Elphaba) gave her manicured pointer finger to the “Thank U, Next” singer instead, which Grande grasped delicately before mouthing and gesturing to her friend, “I’m holding hers.”

The moment referenced a meme between the two Wicked stars that went viral in November ahead of the movie’s release. During that press moment, a journalist discusses with the two women the impact of the song “Defying Gravity” — which is featured in both the film and the Broadway production — and seemingly catches Erivo off guard, and Grande reaches over to gently take her forefinger in a sign of subtle support.

Both Grande and Erivo are nominated for their roles in the movie, while the film itself is in the running for best motion picture – musical or comedy as well as cinematic and box office achievement.

The show also included presenters who are musicians, including Elton John and Brandi Carlile, as well as those with musical ties, such as Billboard-charting actors Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Kate Hudson and Awkwafina.

The Golden Globes are produced by Dick Clark Productions, which is owned by Penske Media Corporation. PMC is also the parent company of Billboard.