System of a Down drummer John Dolmayan recently addressed a controversial moment from the 2025 Golden Globe Awards, where comedian Nikki Glaser’s joke about actress Glenn Close became a focal point of discussion. The joke, delivered during Glaser’s monologue, aimed to poke fun at Close’s storied career but ended up dividing audiences. Dolmayan’s response on Instagram added his perspective to the debate, blending humor with a thoughtful critique.
In the now-viral moment, Glaser quipped about Close in a way that juxtaposed her legendary acting roles with lighthearted commentary on her pop culture appearances. While the room responded with laughter, reactions on social media were mixed, with some questioning whether the joke was in poor taste. Dolmayan joined the conversation, posting a clip of the moment and sharing his candid thoughts: “Really? Glenn Close? Of all people, this is the joke you go with?” His post, though brief, sparked immediate engagement from fans and followers.
Known for his unfiltered opinions, John Dolmayan didn’t hold back in defending Close’s legacy. “Glenn Close is one of the greatest actors of all time. She deserves respect, not some cheap punchline,” he wrote. “Comedy is supposed to push boundaries, but there’s a way to do it without undermining someone’s achievements.”
Close, celebrated for her roles in Fatal Attraction, Dangerous Liaisons, and The Wife, has been a cornerstone of Hollywood for decades. Dolmayan’s remarks reflected a broader conversation about how comedians approach their material, particularly when targeting industry icons. “We’re all for humor, but let’s not forget who we’re talking about here. It’s Glenn Close. She’s earned her place, and that deserves acknowledgment, not ridicule,” he added in the post.
Fans of both Dolmayan and System of a Down chimed in, with responses ranging from agreement to spirited debate. One follower commented, “Comedy is subjective, but I agree with you—there’s a fine line between funny and disrespectful.” Another countered, “Glaser’s joke was harmless, and Close probably didn’t even mind.”
Dolmayan, however, remained firm in his stance. “This isn’t about being overly sensitive,” he replied to a comment. “It’s about having some class. People like Glenn Close have given us decades of incredible work, and that should count for something.”
Glaser herself has not responded publicly to the backlash, and Close has yet to comment on the incident. Still, the joke and Dolmayan’s response have fueled a broader discussion about the balance between comedy and respect in public settings.
For Dolmayan, this moment seemed to transcend a single joke. As he concluded in his post: “We can laugh, we can joke, but let’s not lose sight of the bigger picture—respect for the people who’ve shaped our culture.” His remarks, interspersed with a touch of humor, serve as a reminder of the evolving nature of comedy and the need for sensitivity in an increasingly scrutinized world.