On December 21, 2024, Saturday Night Live celebrated the Christmas season with its annual festive episode, featuring comedy legend Martin Short as host. The event marked Short's much-anticipated induction to the show's prestigious Five-Timers Club, reserved for those who have bravely stepped behind the SNL microphone at least five times. This wintery gathering came complete with the customary cavalcade of A-list celebrity cameos, cementing the night as one filled with laughter and nostalgia.
Short, renowned for his work on Only Murders in the Building and his former tenure as an SNL cast member, was greeted warmly by fellow members of the Five-Timers Club. The cold open kicked off with none other than Tom Hanks and Paul Rudd, who revisited the exclusive tradition of welcoming new inductees. "What a surprise I've known about all week!" Short quipped, setting the tone for the hilarity and warmth of the evening.
The sketch featured engaging back-and-forth among the club members, which included notable appearances from Tina Fey, Scarlett Johansson, Alec Baldwin, Kristen Wiig, and Melissa McCarthy, among others. Hanks humorously remarked, "I never had COVID," poking fun at his own history with the virus during the pandemic, and Rudd contributed with his own light jab, claiming, "Ant-Man’s powers aren’t good.” The chemistry between the stars shone through as they shared playful banter and personal confessions—Wiig noted the freedom of honesty within the club and insisted, "It’s okay. You can be completely honest."
The hallmark moment of Short's induction came when light-hearted revelations were exchanged, such as Baldwin, the father of eight, admitting he has "way too many children." The celebratory mood reached its climax when Jimmy Fallon, acting as the coat-check boy, presented Short with his coveted Five-Timers Club jacket, humorously described as "exactly [his] size, a women’s small."
Transitioning to his monologue, Short reflected on his unique relationship with SNL's creator, Lorne Michaels, humorously likening it to public figures Trump and Musk, but with less tension. He quipped, "He would have been here tonight, but he had a conflict with me not wanting him to be here." Short then led the cast and audience through a lively musical interlude titled "We Need a New Prescription," showcasing his theatrical flair and comedic prowess.
The episode was not just about Short's induction; it also served up several holiday-themed sketches with remarkable physical comedy and festive joy. One standout was the Parking Lot Altercation, where Short shared the screen with Mikey Day as they bickered over prime parking space maneuvers. McCarthy made for a hilarious closing cameo, ramping up the comedic stakes.
Another unique segment was the Christmas Airport Parade featuring TSA agents portrayed by Bowen Yang and Ego Nwodim. Shining moments included Rudd making waves as he expressed disbelief at being the "Sexiest Man Alive" over fellow guest, Hanks, reprising his role as Captain Sully. The lively holiday spirit reigned as familiar characters and scenarios took center stage.
Musical guest Hozier followed with stirring performances, first delivering the spellbinding "Too Sweet" before his second offering—a captivating cover of The Pogues' Fairytale of New York. Hozier’s rendition celebrated Shane MacGowan’s legacy, bringing special poignancy to the festive atmosphere.
The highlight of the night came when the cast reunited to perform A Charlie Brown Christmas, with Short stepping in as the stern director, orchestrated chaos reminiscent of his Jiminy Glick character. The familiar dance performed by the Peanuts crew added visual charm, serving as the perfect ending to this star-studded holiday celebration.
The episode was hailed as one of the most notable of the season, full of celebratory spirits and laughter, making it evident why Short’s induction to the Five-Timers Club was not only deserved but eagerly awaited. SNL's 50th season promises plenty more surprises, ensuring viewers remain captivated by the magic of live television.
