Trevor Noah slams Nicki Minaj, Donald Trump at 2026 Grammy Awards

The 68th annual Grammy Awards, held Sunday in Los Angeles, California, saw host Trevor Noah open the show with commentary on Nicki Minaj’s recent public appearances. Noah referenced Minaj’s association with former President Donald Trump, assuring the audience, “Nicki Minaj is not here. She is still at the White House with Donald Trump, discussing very important issues.”

A Notable Grammy Opening

Noah, hosting for the sixth and final time, also impersonated Trump, stating, “Actually, Nicki, I have the biggest a–. I know they say it’s you, but it’s me.” This followed a viral moment earlier in the week where Minaj and Trump were photographed holding hands at the U.S. Treasury Department’s Trump Accounts Summit, and Minaj referred to herself as Trump’s “number one fan.”

Did You Know? The 68th annual Grammy Awards took place at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California.

Beyond the Minaj-Trump Interaction

The Grammy Awards also featured several other notable moments. Justin and Hailey Bieber, along with Billie Eilish, Pharrell Williams, and Tyler the Creator, were welcomed at the event. Several artists, including Justin Bieber and Billie Eilish, wore “Ice Out” buttons to protest U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Olivia Dean, who won Best New Artist, delivered an emotional acceptance speech, referencing her family’s immigration story.

Expert Insight: The intersection of entertainment and politics, as demonstrated by the Minaj-Trump interaction and the protest statements made by artists, highlights the increasing willingness of public figures to engage with current events and use their platforms to express their views.

Performers at the 2026 Grammy Awards included Bruno Mars, Rosé, Tyler, the Creator, Lady Gaga, Sabrina Carpenter, Clipse, and Pharrell Williams. Reba McEntire, Brandy Clark, and Lukas Nelson performed the in memoriam segment, with Ms. Lauryn Hill paying tribute to D’Angelo and Roberta Flack. Post Malone, Andrew Watt, Chad Smith, Duff McKagan, and Slash honored Ozzy Osbourne.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who hosted the 68th annual Grammy Awards?

Trevor Noah hosted the 68th annual Grammy Awards.

Where were Nicki Minaj and Donald Trump photographed together?

Nicki Minaj and Donald Trump were photographed holding hands at the U.S. Treasury Department’s Trump Accounts Summit.

Who won the Best New Artist award?

Olivia Dean won the Best New Artist award.

As artists continue to use their platforms to address social and political issues, how might award shows evolve to reflect these changing dynamics?