Saturday Night Live Recap: Ariana Grande Hosts with Stevie Nicks
Conehead Nation, rise up! SNL in Review: The Anniversary Recap is back, and we are three episodes in. Many of you agreed with me that last week’s episode was a pleasant rebound from a clunky, awkward season premiere. Numbers don’t lie. Tonight, we have a special match-up: Bowen Yang’s Wicked costar Ariana Grande is being teamed with a deep cut SNL musical guest, a genuine legend: Stevie Nicks.
Grande last appeared on SNL a few months back — but as the musical guest. She has hosted before, back in season 41. The Tidal breakdown sketch remains a late-period classic. Taran Killam, who is now appearing in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at the Kennedy Center (which opened this weekend), shares: “What I’m most excited for is Stevie Nicks. Her with Ariana hosting is appointment television for me.”
Cold Open
Kenan Thompson gets to bust out his awesome Steve Harvey impression. Maya Rudolph returns as VP Kamala Harris — she’s been active in the media this week. With her is Andy Samberg as “Doug the Shrug” alongside Joe Biden (Dana Carvey) and Tim Walz (Jim Gaffigan). The sketch is filled with playful jabs at politicians, showcasing the comedic talents of the cast.
Monologue
Grande notes she has had a great year — she’s a theater kid, so it’s a dream to star in Wicked. One point: she is just here to host, stay low-key, and NOT sing. Yet, she breaks out into song almost immediately, impersonating Britney Spears, Miley Cyrus, and Gwen Stefani during her number.
Guests and Expert Discussions
We have invited a few guests to share their thoughts on this episode. Joining us are comedian and former SNL cast member Gary Kroeger, performance expert Jillian Roberts, and pop culture analyst Tom Whitmore.
Gary Kroeger: “I think having Stevie Nicks as a musical guest brings a nostalgic vibe to the show. It’s a reminder of how SNL taps into legendary talent.”
Jillian Roberts: “Ariana Grande’s energy as a host can drive the narrative. She represents the new generation while honoring the legends.”
Tom Whitmore: “The comedic chemistry, especially in the cold open, shows that even in political satire, SNL expertly intertwines humor with current events.”
Final Thoughts
What did you think of this week’s episode? Vote here! Join the discussion below and share your thoughts on Ariana Grande’s return and Stevie Nicks’ performances!
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