Colin Jost didn't hold back on his wife Scarlett Johansson during the latest segment of "Saturday Night Live," delivering jokes during the popular "Weekend Update" as the actress watched from backstage. Fans of the show were treated to the comedic dynamic between the couple as they tackled themes of age and family life, all wrapped up with the sharp humor Jost is known for.
The segment aired on December 21, 2021, during SNL's winter finale. Jost, alongside co-host Michael Che, dove right in with his customary nervous energy as he dedicated his next joke to Johansson. "I want to dedicate this next joke to my boo, Scarlett Johansson," he said, prompting immediate laughter from the audience as the camera panned to Johansson, who shook her head, showing genuine concern for what was about to come.
Jost continued, "Hey boo, y'all know Scarlett just celebrated her 40th birthday, which means I'm about to get up out of there!" His playful quip drew uproarious laughter, but it was clear Johansson was unsure whether to giggle or cringe. The stakes were even higher as the segment featured jokes neither comedian had seen before, following SNL's tradition of keeping things spicy.
Shifting gears, Jost added, "We just had a kid together, and y'all ain't see no pictures of him yet 'cause he Black as hell." This audacious statement elicited another wave of laughter, with viewers reveling in the absurdity. A photoshopped image then flashed across the screen, showing the couple with their son. Jost’s inability to contain his laughter highlighted the comedic brilliance of this moment. Johansson's confused expression provided the perfect visual counter to Jost's humor.
Things took another humorous turn when Jost remarked, "Costco has removed their roast beef sandwich from their menu, but I ain't tripping. I be eating roast beef every night since my wife had the kid." The camera caught Johansson’s stunned reaction, as she mouthing, "Oh my God," perfectly captured the shock many spouses can relate to when their partner goes for the jugular with humor.
This wasn't the first time Jost opted to poke fun at his marriage during the show. Earlier this season, he lightheartedly remarked, "ChatGPT has released a new voice assistant feature inspired by Scarlett Johansson’s AI character in 'Her,' which I’ve never bothered to watch, because withoutthat body, what’s the point of listening?" The joke cleverly referenced Johansson's previous legal dispute with OpenAI over the unauthorized use of her voice. Given the couple's lengthy history rooted within SNL—where they met during Johansson's hosting gig back in 2017—it’s no wonder Jost flips their narrative onto the show.
Jost and Johansson have been romantically linked for several years. Their relationship went public after they were spotted together during Jost’s stint on SNL. After tying the knot in 2020, the couple welcomed their son, Cosmo, born during the COVID-19 pandemic. Johansson is also mom to Rose Dorothy, her child from a previous relationship. This comic interplay on SNL reflects the playful bond they share and how they navigate their love and family life with laughter.
Throughout his comedic bits, Jost managed to intertwine intimate details of their relationship and family, making it relatable for viewers. The jokes also demonstrated resilience amid challenges they face as public figures; even the significant milestone of Johansson turning 40 was served up with humor instead of trepidation. The segment offered lightheartedness not only to the audience but also perhaps for Johansson herself as she endured the jabs without missing a beat.
For fans of both comedians, their banter and hilarity encapsulated what many appreciate about SNL: the unexpected, the humorous, and the relatable circumstances of everyday life. Who knew the seemingly mundane details of parenthood and aging could serve as setup material for primetime laughs?
With their documented ups and downs and the way they handle public perception, there’s certainly plenty of material for Jost to draw upon for future bits. And as they both navigate the world of Hollywood and parenthood, audiences can look forward to more relatable moments shared through laughter.
