On December 22, 2024, comedy icon Martin Short made his much-anticipated return to Saturday Night Live for the fifth time, delighting audiences with sharp political humor and festive cheer during the show’s holiday special. The episode not only marked Short's induction to the illustrious Five-Timers Club—a recognition of hosts who have appeared five times or more—but it also showcased his uncanny ability to weave satire through his commentary on politics and pop culture.
Short kicked off his monologue with urgency, humorously declaring, "I have to get through this quickly; I have ten sketches to get to where I play an elf." This playful jab set the tone for the night, showcasing his exuberant energy. He quickly shifted gears, referencing waiting for his Uber driver before sneaking in, "And you know how testy Matt Gaetz can get," drawing laughs from the audience and nodding to the disgraced former congressman known for his contentious politics.
Thanking SNL creator Lorne Michaels for the opportunity to host during the show's milestone 50th season, Short continued to craft his jokes around contemporary figures, saying, "We’re kind of like Trump and Elon Musk—without the sexual tension." This quip established the centerpiece of his routine, juxtaposing the billionaire duo's relationship with the camaraderie he shares with Michaels.
His monologue was filled with traditional set-up and punchline humor, allowing him to touch on his return to the show, the renewal of his current series, Only Murders in the Building, and his humorous ownership of five Tesla Cybertrucks. "Not to drive; they’re just so beautiful," he quipped, eliciting hearty laughter from the audience as he playfully acknowledged Musk's electric vehicle brand.
Short's sharp commentary didn't end there; he delved back to political humor with references to Robert F. Kennedy Jr., casually alluding to his anti-vaccine stance and echoing broader public sentiments with lines like, "You need a new prescription, and take it from this crooner, get those meds before they’re outlawed by RFK Jr." Such jokes captured the audience’s anxiety over the political climate and showcased SNL's longstanding tradition of satirizing contemporary issues.
During this festive edition of SNL, the show featured musical elements, ending the heightened political commentary with Short performing the classic holiday number, "We Need a Little Christmas." This transition allowed him to merge his typical humor with seasonal warmth, creating memorable moments for the viewers. His performance was enhanced by surprise guest appearances from television stalwarts like Jimmy Fallon, who humorously took on the role of the “jacket boy” during Short's Five-Timers Club induction.
The atmosphere remained star-studded throughout the evening, as familiar SNL veterans like Tom Hanks, Tina Fey, and Paul Rudd returned to celebrate Short's comedic prowess, proving once again SNL’s unique blend of humor and nostalgia. Hanks, as one of the first to join the Five-Timers Club back in 1990, shared the stage with Short to revive the legacy of classic SNL moments.
While Short’s affectionate jabs at political figures like Trump and Musk might have sparked mixed reactions online, they successfully drew attention to the often humorous yet dire realities of current events, anchoring audiences with laughter. Online commentary ranged from sharp criticism to fans expressing their delight at SNL's liberal humor, which has become synonymous with the show's identity. Social media erupted with mixed reviews, some viewers applauding Short's ability to make light of tense relationships, including his quip about Trump, Musk, and Gaetz.
One audience member on social media declared, "SNL is garbage," criticizing the show's comedic style and perceived bias, indicating how deeply divisive the political environment remains. Others, meanwhile, expressed excitement about the show’s potential for continued commentary on current events, indicating SNL’s role as both entertainers and cultural commentators.
The humor of the evening served as both entertainment and social critique, bridging the gap between comedy and relevance. With fans eagerly celebrating the landmark season, Short's hosting gig stands out as another example of SNL's continued legacy within American television and culture. The blend of quick wit, sharp observations, and nostalgic moments crafted by Short and the returning cast not only provided laughter but also reminded audiences of the show's power to provoke thought through humor.
Reflecting on the changes and developments surrounding his career and the entertainment industry, Short wore the official Five-Timers Club jacket with pride, alongside fellow stars who recognized the magnitude of this milestone. The juxtaposition of comedic moments with pointed political commentary continues to cement SNL’s place as a relevant platform for discussion, ensuring fans will keep tuning in for more iconic moments to come as the show gears up for its official anniversary celebration.
