Grammys 2026: Noah Takes Jabs at Nicki Minaj and Trump During Opening Monologue
Comedian hosts final Grammys, mixing humor, celebrity jabs, and fan commentary
LOS ANGELES, Feb 2: Trevor Noah returned to host the Grammys 2026 for the final time, kicking off the show with his trademark energy immediately after Bruno Mars and Rosé performed “APT.”
Noah opened with lighthearted jokes about the show’s many award categories, quipping, “They’ve even got a category for Best Voicemail From Your Grandmother. Another three and a half minute banger, nana!” He also poked fun at American drinking rules inspired by a Korean drinking game, saying, “Every time you turn on the news, you drink.”
Walking among the tables, Noah engaged with stars, teasing Pharrell about Louis Vuitton discounts and asking Jelly Roll if he could unlock Teddy Swims’ phone using Face ID.
The night’s most talked about moment came when Noah joked about Nicki Minaj and former US President Donald Trump: “Nicki Minaj… is not here. She’s still at the White House with Donald Trump, discussing very important issues.” He then slipped into a Trump impression, delivering, “Actually Nicki, I have the biggest a everybody’s saying it. I know they say it’s you, but it’s me.”
The remarks sparked mixed reactions on social media, with fans praising his timing while others critiqued his jokes. Comments ranged from, “Trevor stayed messy for this lmao… Grammy hosts really don’t hold back anymore,” to, “can anyone name one time Trevor Noah was funny?”
Noah also addressed more serious issues, showing support for Olivia Dean amid ticketing controversies, saying resellers were “ripping fans off,” while adding humor about the impact on live concerts.
Having first hosted in 2021 during the pandemic, Noah’s six year Grammys run concluded on a high note with laughter, celebrity interactions, and appreciation from the audience, marking a fitting farewell to his tenure as host.
