The Golden Globes are officially underway, and as always, the night is packed with memorable moments, emotional speeches, awkward pauses, and plenty of drama that'll flood social media feeds. If you're a fan of Hollywood's glitzy chaos, then the Golden Globes truly delivers — it's like the Oscars' more relaxed, "let's-have-a-drink" cousin.
This year, host Nikki Glaser took full advantage of the evening's freewheeling vibe, throwing jabs at Timothée Chalamet's fresh mustache, Benny Blanco's "wife guy" persona, and even diving into the controversy surrounding the once-untouchable rap mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs. The Golden Globes have always been a space where no topic is too off-limits, and the seating arrangements (a.k.a. the "alcohol is flowing" element) ensure the stars get more comfortable than they might at other ceremonies. In short, expect candid moments, spontaneous remarks, and plenty of celebrity chatter for days.
As for this year’s nominees, they highlight a dazzling spectrum of cinematic choices — from the twisted, body-horror-driven "The Substance" to the whimsical, musical exploration of "Wicked." It's a mix that appeals to a wide range of tastes, showcasing that movie lovers have a lot to look forward to in 2025. But the real highlight of the night? The lingo. Yes, folks, the Golden Globes have introduced some fresh slang, like "popcorn actress" and "zaddy," making this awards show as much a linguistic adventure as a celebration of talent.
Let’s dive into the night's biggest highlights — from tear-jerking speeches to off-the-cuff remarks that left the audience in stitches. Here's your ultimate guide to the night-defining moments.
Demi Moore Shatters Stereotypes: What Exactly Is a ‘Popcorn Actress’?
Demi Moore made history on the Golden Globes stage by winning her first-ever Globe for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical, thanks to her standout role in "The Substance." This campy horror film takes aim at Hollywood's obsession with youth and beauty, and Moore’s performance was nothing short of iconic. But what made her win even more special? The powerful speech she gave, reflecting on her journey.
Moore shared a story that resonated with everyone in the room. “Thirty years ago, I had a producer tell me that I was a popcorn actress,” she recalled, explaining that she initially took this as a limiting comment. At that time, the term "popcorn actress" was thrown around to describe performers who were considered more for commercial appeal than for critical depth. Moore admitted that the harsh criticism had eaten away at her over the years.
However, Moore wasn’t about to let that label define her. She took a moment to reflect on how far she’s come, especially with "The Substance." The film may have had its fair share of popcorn appeal, but it was also far more layered and meaningful than typical blockbusters. While some may view popcorn movies as superficial entertainment, "The Substance" proved that a movie could be both accessible and thought-provoking.
Moore’s win at the Golden Globes marked a turning point. It wasn’t just about the trophy. It was about recognizing her artistry beyond the glitz of Hollywood blockbusters. After decades in the business, Moore's success in "The Substance" wasn’t about appeasing the masses but instead embracing the complex roles that now define her career.
The Surprising Rise of ‘Zaddy’ — Jeff Goldblum Gets in on the Fun
Let’s talk about the new wave of celebrity slang. Jeff Goldblum, the smooth-talking wizard from "Wicked," found himself in a hilarious moment when he was introduced to a term that made him scratch his head: "zaddy."
Goldblum, alongside his co-star Michelle Yeoh, presented an award, but it wasn’t their on-screen talents that had the crowd buzzing. It was the playful banter between the two stars. Goldblum expressed his delight and confusion upon learning that social media had crowned him a "zaddy." For those not in the know, "zaddy" is a term used to describe an older man who is attractive, stylish, and generally exudes confidence. Goldblum’s bewilderment was as charming as ever, making for a genuinely funny moment that showcased the star's easygoing nature.
Meanwhile, Michelle Yeoh, ever the graceful presence, joined in on the fun. She shared her own experiences with viral phrases like "serving mother," a term that’s taken over from the LGBTQ+ community and essentially means “slaying the game.” Yeoh jokingly admitted that people have been telling her she’s "serving mother," and that she’s "slaying the house down." For those not familiar, “slaying the house down” means absolutely killing it — whether it’s with a performance, a look, or overall energy.
In a world where such phrases seem to pop up overnight, Goldblum and Yeoh’s reactions were a humorous reminder that, no matter how many awards they've won or how much fame they've amassed, even seasoned actors are often surprised by the changing tides of pop culture.
The Slang That’s Taking Over Hollywood: What Does It All Mean?
The Golden Globes was more than just a showcase of film and television excellence; it was also a peek into the evolving language of today’s entertainment industry. "Popcorn actress" and "zaddy" were just the tip of the iceberg. Terms like “serving mother” and “slaying the house down” made their rounds, showcasing a deeper connection between the stars and their fans — particularly the younger, often queer audience that’s pushing the boundaries of what we consider mainstream culture.
While some of these phrases might confuse the older generation (or, in Goldblum’s case, seasoned actors), they’re emblematic of the way language evolves through digital culture and social media. These terms reflect a sense of empowerment, individuality, and pride — qualities that have increasingly been embraced by the stars of today’s Hollywood. In some ways, these phrases are becoming more integral to the identity of modern performers, who now, more than ever, find themselves navigating the intricate relationships between their public personas and online interactions.
Michelle Yeoh and Her Bold Remarks: A True Queen
As if the night wasn’t already packed with fun, Michelle Yeoh’s unscripted remarks added an extra layer of charisma to the proceedings. When the camera caught Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, Yeoh joked about "serving mother," in reference to the overwhelming praise for her performance in "Wicked." Her ability to make light of these internet-fueled terms while maintaining the poise and wit she’s known for only added to her legend.
Yeoh’s comments also serve as a subtle nod to the shifting power dynamics in the entertainment industry. With a record number of women in top roles, especially in genres that traditionally featured male-dominated storylines, Yeoh’s success in "Wicked" — alongside Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo — sends a strong message about the evolving landscape of film and theater.
The Golden Globes: A Reflection of Changing Tides
The Golden Globes of 2025 were a reminder of the increasing influence of pop culture and social media on the entertainment world. While the night was full of glitz, glam, and laughter, it also brought to the forefront the changing nature of Hollywood’s storytelling. From Demi Moore breaking stereotypes with her role in "The Substance" to Jeff Goldblum learning what it means to be a "zaddy," the Golden Globes were more than just a celebration of film. They were a snapshot of an industry that’s growing, evolving, and embracing the diversity of voices and experiences that shape the world today.
In the end, whether you’re a fan of the new slang, the old Hollywood glamour, or just here for the emotional speeches, the Golden Globes reminded us all of why we love this night of stars — it’s unpredictable, it’s full of surprises, and, above all, it’s a celebration of the art of storytelling.
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