In a comedic blend of environmental awareness and absurdity, Will Forte took to the stage on April 22, 2025, during Saturday Night Live's "Weekend Update" segment to deliver an Earth Day song that doubled as an open apology to the planet. Backed by fellow cast member Fred Armisen on guitar, Forte's performance highlighted the humorous yet serious need for environmental responsibility.
Forte, known for his roles in various comedic films and television series, used the platform to confess to a series of environmentally unfriendly behaviors, presenting them in a light-hearted manner that resonated with the audience. "I’m a huge supporter of the environment. But even I do small things every day, without even noticing, that hurt the planet," he stated, setting the tone for his tongue-in-cheek song.
The song's lyrics were a mix of surreal humor and stark confessions. Forte admitted to not recycling and even encouraging others to be wasteful, saying, "I often go to other people’s recycling bins and throw them into the regular trash!" He further exaggerated his commitment to environmental negligence by claiming, "I own 30 stretch-limousine Hummers and I keep them all running, even when I am sleeping." This over-the-top confession was a satirical take on the excesses of modern life and the often overlooked impact on the environment.
Perhaps the most outrageous line came when Forte declared, "I dump my unused paint directly into the ocean," showcasing the absurdity of his character's lack of awareness. Yet, amidst the humor, he also sang, "Earth, you’re a wonderful, wonderful planet!" which served as a reminder of the beauty and importance of the natural world.
Forte's performance was not just about humor; it also contained a call to action, albeit a humorous one. He proposed that the audience should rent the film Battlefield Earth and then throw it in the trash as a way to draw attention to environmental issues. "First, rent Battlefield Earth that very evening. And then, throw it into the trash!" he exclaimed, suggesting that the overflowing landfills would somehow prompt action to save the planet.
This unique approach to Earth Day, combining comedy with a message, resonated with viewers, especially in a time when environmental issues are at the forefront of public discourse. Forte's humorous take on his personal failings was a reminder that while many are trying to do their part for the planet, it’s easy to slip into habits that are detrimental.
While Forte's antics may have been exaggerated for comedic effect, they reflect a larger societal issue regarding environmental responsibility. The performance served as a reminder that humor can be a powerful vehicle for raising awareness about serious topics, encouraging audiences to reflect on their own habits and the impact they have on the environment.
In a separate segment of the comedic world, Saturday Night Live has a rich history of cast members making unexpected appearances in music videos, showcasing the intersection of music and comedy. For instance, Will Ferrell, Maya Rudolph, and Amy Poehler appeared in The Beastie Boys’ "Make Some Noise" video, adding a comedic flair to the iconic track. Ferrell portrayed the future Ad-Rock, while Rudolph and Poehler took on quirky roles that complemented the video’s playful nature.
Another notable cameo featured Jason Sudeikis and Will Forte, who hilariously replaced Mumford & Sons in the video for "Hopeful Wanderer." This unexpected twist delighted fans, as the band reportedly loved the idea and didn’t want any changes made to the casting.
Chevy Chase also made headlines with his appearance in Paul Simon’s "You Can Call Me Al" video, where he brought a unique charm to the otherwise serious tone of the song. Similarly, Eddie Murphy showcased his comedic prowess as an Egyptian king in Michael Jackson’s "Remember the Time," a role that remains memorable in the realm of music video cameos.
Dan Aykroyd’s appearance in Digital Underground's "Same Song" video highlighted cultural diversity, while Chris Farley’s cameo in the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ "Soul to Squeeze" served as a nod to his film role as Connie Conehead’s boyfriend. Molly Shannon, too, graced Sheryl Crow’s "A Change Will Do You Good" video, adding her signature comedic touch to the mix.
These examples illustrate the close relationship between comedy and music, with SNL cast members often bridging the gap between the two worlds. The playful nature of their appearances in music videos reflects a broader trend in entertainment where boundaries are blurred, allowing for creative collaborations that entertain and engage audiences.
In conclusion, whether through a humorous Earth Day song or unexpected music video cameos, the blend of comedy and music continues to resonate with audiences. Will Forte’s performance on SNL serves as a reminder of the importance of environmental awareness, while also showcasing the power of humor to address serious issues in a relatable way. As Earth Day reminds us of our responsibilities towards the planet, it also encourages us to engage with these topics in ways that are entertaining and thought-provoking.
