The iconic sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live took center stage once again with the hosting debut of pop sensation Ariana Grande on October 12, 2024. This episode had the added excitement of featuring legendary rock artist Stevie Nicks as the musical guest, marking her return to the SNL stage after over 40 years. The combination of these two powerhouse performers set expectations high for the evening's entertainment.
The show kicked off with some typical Saturday Night Live chaos, as the cold open was slightly delayed due to the NBC football broadcast. This gave the cast and crew time to prepare for what turned out to be a hilarious parody of the Vice Presidential debate. Chloe Fineman played Kaitlan Collins, giving commentary as the skits pivoted around political satire featuring Vice President Kamala Harris, played by Maya Rudolph, and none other than Dana Carvey returning as President Joe Biden.
Alongside them, Kenan Thompson stepped back onto the SNL stage, showcasing his iconic impersonation of Steve Harvey. The skit included several humorous moments highlighting the absurdities of political discussions and debate strategizing, encapsulated through comedic improvisations. It set the tone for the night: entertaining with sharp, witty commentary on current events.
Following the cold open, Ariana Grande graced the stage for her monologue. With her special brand of charm and humor, she acknowledged the whirlwind year she’s had, especially with her lead role in the Wicked film adaptation. Grande humorously claimed she was there to keep it low-key and refrain from singing but immediately burst out with song, morphing seamlessly through impressions of music icons like Britney Spears and Gwen Stefani. This lively performance not only showcased her impressive vocal talent but also her comedic timing, making it clear why she was chosen to host.
Throughout the evening, Grande seamlessly integrated her Wicked co-star Bowen Yang, adding to the chemistry on stage. The audience was treated not only to skits but also to delightful banter between the two, enhancing the show's atmosphere. This camaraderie added to the authenticity of the live performance, showcasing the chemistry necessary to engage viewers fully.
One standout sketch involved Grande and the cast participating in a playful spoof of bridesmaid speeches at what turned out to be quite the entertaining wedding reception. The bridesmaids, portrayed by Grande, Heidi Gardner, Ego Nwodim, and Sarah Sherman, delivered unexpected and creatively choreographed songs chronicling their bachelorette party adventures. The improvisational spirit shone through as their quirky yet hilarious tales took center stage, leaving viewers chuckling. Through their individual takes, each actress added her own flair, embellishing the narrative with comedic relief.
The musical segment of the night saw Stevie Nicks take the spotlight. Excitement buzzed through the audience as Nicks performed songs from her extensive catalog, including her newly released single, "The Lighthouse," which resonates powerfully with current social issues, empowering women’s rights post the overturning of Roe v. Wade. During her set, she infused nostalgia and familiarity, captivating long-time fans and introducing her artistry to new audiences. Her presence on stage felt both timely and timeless, inviting attendees to revel in the depth of her musical legacy.
For those who have followed Grande’s career, her hosting role was no surprise. She had previously appeared on SNL both as a musical guest and host, fostering familiarity with the show's format. Her appearances had ranged from stellar musical performances to memorable character roles, leaving audiences eager to see how she would impress this time. Despite the pressures of hosting, especially with the history of SNL episodes stacked against her, she managed to create what felt like dynamic fun, blending humor with her musical prowess.
Another shining skit showcased Grande’s talents when she tackled modern relationships with humor, focusing on the humorously absurd expectations one might have of couples. It struck chords with many viewers, prompting reflections on their own relationship dynamics and, of course, eliciting laughter.
Viewers also got to enjoy classic SNL styles of digital shorts and commentary sketches presented throughout the episode. During one segment, the audience was treated to moments from returning cast members, enriching the night with reminiscences of past SNL legends and their sketches. Fans appreciated the nostalgic references and shoutouts to the show's history, creating yet another layer of connection with the characters represented by both the cast and the beloved musical guest.
Overall, the combination of Ariana Grande’s hosting and Stevie Nicks’ musical contribution made this episode of Saturday Night Live not just entertaining but also memorable. With Grande’s innate ability to balance both comedy and music and Nicks’ impactful performances, this episode has solidified itself as one of the must-watch installments of SNL’s 50th season. The energetic atmosphere, captivating performances, and dash of nostalgia created the perfect recipe for success, leaving audiences eagerly awaiting what else this milestone season has to offer.
