Kieran Culkin and Bill Burr both had very energetic presences from their recent Broadway experiences that translated very well to Studio 8H. Featured back in the frozen audience of Saturday Night Live (SNL) during host Jack Black’s energetic opening monologue. The two, both former SNL heavyweights, infused their trademark energy into the audience. They participated in the engaging environment, tapping into their memories while bringing a new comedic approach.
Culkin’s ties to SNL run deep, as his childhood resume speaks for itself. His first appearance on the program was at the tender age of nine. During Thanksgiving weekend in November 1991, he stood out in his sketches and performances as his brother Macaulay hosted. Since that time, Culkin has gone back to the iconic late-night show, hosting the show himself in 2021. Burr first hosted in 2020. In fact, last November, he did just that, returning to studio 8H to host the sixth episode of SNL’s historic 50th season.
The two actors went from their Broadway performances to the Saturday Night Live audience. During Jack Black’s engaging monologue, which included a catchy tune and lively choreography, both Culkin and Burr were seen laughing and dancing along with the crowd. Their playful antics matched the mood of the event perfectly and highlighted their love for Black’s star-studded showcase of talent.
Fortunately, the audience was entertained as only Jack Black can entertain, with his presence and energy overwhelming the senses. His monologue featured the line,
“If you wanna rock and roll, you best be following me.” – Jack Black
This statement resonated with both the live audience and viewers at home as Black invited everyone into the spirit of the night.
Bob Odenkirk, an SNL luminary in his own right, has great stories of his time writing there. He served in that role from 1987 through 1991. He produced brilliant work alongside fellow geniuses like Conan O’Brien and Robert Smigel. He performed with such iconic legends as Mike Myers, Tim Meadows, Adam Sandler, Chris Rock & Chris Farley. Odenkirk is a huge SNL fan and talks often about his amazing time working on the show. He confesses to regretting how he acted during those formative years as well. He honestly said, “I was an enormous prick at that time.”
Culkin and Burr’s presence in the audience reminded many viewers of the show’s enduring legacy and its ability to bring together generations of talent. As these twenty-somethings swayed and smiled their way through Black’s set, the quintessential SNL experience, where good comedy inspires a shared sense of fun, was on full display.
