Comedian Trevor Noah delivered a pointed roast of rapper Nicki Minaj over her enthusiastic support for former President Donald Trump during his explosive opening monologue at the 2026 Grammy Awards on Sunday night. The 41-year-old host, returning for his sixth consecutive year, wasted no time in targeting the 43-year-old musician in front of a packed arena of music industry peers.
Noticeable Absence Draws First Jab
After acknowledging several high-profile stars in attendance, Noah immediately highlighted Minaj's conspicuous absence from the ceremony. "Nicki Minaj is not here," he declared to the audience. "She is still at the White House with Donald Trump discussing very important issues." This initial remark set the tone for what would become a more extended comedic assault on the rapper's political allegiances.
Trump Impersonation and Raunchy Humour
The former Daily Show host then launched into a full Donald Trump impersonation, complete with the former president's distinctive cadence and phrasing. Noah's bit included a particularly racy joke focusing on Trump's posterior, with the comedian channelling the ex-president's voice to declare: "You know what, Nicki, I have the biggest a**. I have it. Everybody's saying it, Nicki. I know they say it's you but it's me. Wap, wap, wap! Look at it, baby!"
The audacious routine elicited roaring laughter from much of the audience, though some attendees responded with audible groans as celebrities were seen nervously looking on from their seats. The mixed reaction highlighted the divisive nature of Minaj's recent political statements within the entertainment community.
Context of Minaj's Trump Endorsement
Noah's comedic targeting came amid heightened attention on Minaj's vocal backing of the former president. The rapper has made headlines in recent days by declaring herself Trump's "number one fan" and was photographed alongside the president at his Trump Accounts event just days before the Grammy ceremony. This public alignment has marked a significant departure from the typical political leanings of many prominent music industry figures.
The 2026 Grammy Awards themselves represented a landmark celebration of musical achievement across numerous genres, with winners spanning from established legends to emerging talents. The ceremony's extensive winners list showcased the diversity of contemporary music, though Noah's opening monologue ensured political commentary would remain part of the evening's conversation alongside the artistic recognition.
Broader Implications for Celebrity Politics
This incident underscores the increasingly blurred lines between entertainment, politics, and public commentary in modern celebrity culture. Noah's decision to directly address Minaj's political stance during what is traditionally an apolitical celebration of artistic achievement reflects how political divisions now permeate even previously neutral cultural spaces. The comedian's routine, while humorous in delivery, touched upon genuine tensions within the industry regarding celebrity political endorsements and their potential impact on public perception.
As the Grammy Awards continue to evolve as both an artistic showcase and cultural barometer, moments like Noah's monologue demonstrate how entertainment ceremonies now frequently serve as platforms for broader social and political commentary, often generating as much discussion about current affairs as about the musical achievements being honoured.
