Jon Hamm made his long-awaited return to the iconic sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live on April 12, 2025, after nearly 15 years since he last hosted. The episode marked the 17th installment of Season 50 and was filled with a mix of pre-recorded segments and live sketches that, while entertaining, left some viewers feeling a bit scattered.
Having hosted three episodes during the height of Mad Men fame, Hamm's comedic prowess was well-established. His absence from the live stage since 2010 raised eyebrows, particularly given his frequent cameos over the years. In his monologue, Hamm humorously pointed out his 14 appearances in the past 15 years, reminding audiences that he has maintained a strong connection with the show even if he hadn’t hosted.
Despite the excitement surrounding Hamm's return, the episode's structure felt somewhat off-kilter. With only four live sketches and three pre-recorded segments, Hamm was limited in his on-stage presence. This left fans yearning for more of his trademark charm and comedic timing. The cold open featured James Austin Johnson impersonating Donald Trump, which has become a familiar routine for the show. Johnson's portrayal, while humorous, felt repetitive as it echoed past sketches that have relied heavily on Trump’s antics.
One highlight of the evening was the sketch titled Check-to-Check Business News Channel, where Hamm and cast member Ego Nwodim delivered a sharp and witty take on financial news aimed at everyday consumers. The sketch stood out for its clever writing and Hamm’s engaging performance, which showcased his ability to blend humor with a relatable premise.
Another notable moment came during Weekend Update, where hosts Colin Jost and Michael Che delivered a slew of punchlines about current events, including Trump's tariff failures and bizarre social media posts. The segment featured guest commentary from Bowen Yang, Emil Wakim, and Sarah Sherman, each bringing their unique flair to the desk. Yang's segment, in particular, resonated well with viewers, as he humorously addressed generational differences regarding U.S.-China relations.
Hamm also appeared in the sketch New Parents, alongside Bowen Yang. This sketch was a comedic exploration of the absurdities surrounding parenthood, with Hamm and Yang portraying a couple navigating the confusion of unexpected parenthood. Their chemistry and timing made for a memorable performance, with Hamm’s delivery enhancing the humor of the sketch.
However, not all sketches hit the mark. The game show sketch titled Guess! The Correct! Answer!, featuring Hamm as a contestant, fell flat for some viewers. Critics noted that while Hamm's performance was solid, the material lacked originality and felt more suited for a different era of comedy. The humor felt stale, and the sketch didn’t quite capture the energy that fans have come to expect from SNL.
One of the more bizarre sketches was Please Don’t Destroy, where Hamm played a federal agent overly excited about pizza during a serious disappearance case. While the premise was amusing, it highlighted the episode's uneven pacing and reliance on pre-recorded material, which detracted from Hamm's live performance opportunities.
Despite the mixed reviews, Hamm’s presence was undeniably a draw for the audience. His ability to blend charm with comedic timing has made him a beloved figure on the show. As he gears up for his inevitable induction into the Five Timers’ Club, fans are hopeful that he won’t wait another 15 years for his next hosting gig.
The episode concluded with musical guest Lizzo, who performed two songs that, while not her catchiest, brought an energetic close to the night. Hamm’s return was a nostalgic reminder of his earlier days on the show, and while the episode may not have reached the heights of his past performances, it certainly reminded viewers of his enduring talent.
Looking ahead, SNL will return on May 3, 2025, with Quinta Brunson set to host and Benson Boone as the musical guest. As the season progresses, fans eagerly anticipate how the remaining episodes will unfold and whether Hamm will make another appearance before the season wraps up.
The episode may have felt a bit scattered, but Hamm's return to SNL reignited the excitement many have for the show and its ability to blend humor with timely cultural commentary. As evidenced by the mixed reception, the balance between live and pre-recorded material remains a critical element in crafting a successful episode.
In the end, Jon Hamm's return to Saturday Night Live may not have been perfect, but it was a testament to his comedic legacy and a reminder of why he remains a fan favorite. Here’s hoping for more memorable moments in the upcoming episodes!
