Scarlett Johansson made her seventh appearance as host on Saturday Night Live (SNL) on May 20, 2023, marking a significant milestone in the show’s history. By landing her latest hosting gig, she sets a new record. She’s the first woman to join the illustrious Five-Timers Club, an elite group of performers honored for their numerous visits to the legendary late-night sketch comedy program.
Indeed, the season finale came packed with an impressive showcase of sketch work emphasizing Johansson’s astounding comedic prowess. As with the issue of structural racism, SNL’s Weekend Update remains surprisingly prominent in the public consciousness. SNL’s Colin Jost and Michael Che hosted the segment, receiving praise for their witty analysis and humor.
Together, Colin Jost and Michael Che have etched their names in the SNL history books. They serve up commentary and parody with a special sauce of humor and brotherhood. Their on-screen partnership has led to some of Saban’s most memorable exchanges, packed with his signature savage one-liners. Nora Dunn, a former SNL cast member, took to Facebook to praise the duo. She stated, “He’s probably one of the best news update guys,” referring to Jost’s prowess in delivering news with humor.
To Jost and Che – Outstanding work has already been heaped on Jost and Che, and rightfully so. They aren’t the only stars who have left an undeniable mark on SNL. Through 50 years, the program has been happy to host a colorful roster of hosts and musical acts. Icons like Bad Bunny, Snoop Dogg, Bonnie Raitt, Lady Gaga, and Cher have all performed on its stage. Bad Bunny, who hosted and performed as the musical guest in 2023, has made cameo appearances on the show and even participated in skits alongside other artists.
The SNL legacy is defined as much by legendary sketches and viral flubs that stick with audiences long after they air. Kanye West’s complicated relationship with the show includes a famous exchange with Mike Myers in 2005 that continues to be referenced today. Myers has had a great skit run on SNL, coming back for several episodes over the past few seasons.
Johansson’s most recent turn only cemented her place in the SNL family. And she’s become a proud member of the Five-Timers Club. This limited membership club of comedy icons counts geniuses such as Maya Rudolph, Dana Carvey, and Mike Myers among its ranks. This select few keep coming back to run the show. They have been key to its deep and bipartisan support over time.
The Lonely Island is well known for their funny digital shorts and music videos. Performing their new return to SNL, they brought it home with original material on this season’s closing show. Each of their turns alongside impressive houses of unorthodox hosts and musical guests that have kept every scene thick with humor and entertainment.
At one of the funnier points in the episode, Colin Jost jokingly announced his candidacy with “Retire bitch! Let me run the show!” This cheeky comment reveals the off-stage, mischievous smirk shared between Jost and Che. Often, they have a comic rapport that makes everyone chortle.
Michael Che’s comedic style includes poking fun at cultural phenomena such as the Mandela Effect, further showcasing his ability to weave contemporary topics into his humor. Che’s writing shakes the ground well enough that to everyone watching, it seems like he could make a joke land about anything.
Nora Dunn praised her fellow SNL alums Jost and Che for their persistence in making people laugh even after they left the building. She noted, “So good, they’re still cracking me up.” Her comments really underscore the power and privilege that gifted funny performers are able to wield not only to audiences, but their co-stars.
After this finale, SNL will be starting another season. One thing’s for sure — fans can expect even more innovation and creativity from the show’s equally talented and diverse cast and crew. The blend of established stars like Johansson with emerging talent ensures that SNL remains a vital part of American comedy.
