Anne Hathaway once again captivated audiences with her singing talent during a memorable sketch on “Saturday Night Live” (SNL). According to Seth Meyers, this performance, which aired during Hathaway’s debut on October 4, 2008, earned the actress a standing ovation—a rare feat on the show.
In the sketch, Hathaway portrayed the beloved character Mary Poppins, showcasing her vocal abilities with renditions of the iconic songs “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” and “A Spoonful of Sugar.” Joined by cast members Bobby Moynihan and Casey Wilson, she playfully explained the whimsical word “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” as “a disease of the liver,” which only afflicts grown-ups like Bill Hader’s character, Bert. Their harmonious performance not only delighted the audience but also added a comedic twist to the classic children’s tale.
Meyers highlighted the significance of Hathaway’s debut episode, noting it was the only SNL episode in his extensive tenure that elicited a standing ovation. Reflecting on the atmosphere of the show during that time, he mentioned the excitement and camaraderie among the cast and crew, especially with Tina Fey’s memorable appearances as Sarah Palin.
Hathaway’s impressive range has made her a beloved figure in entertainment, extending beyond her cinematic achievements in films like “The Princess Diaries” and “The Devil Wears Prada.” SNL has been a platform for her to demonstrate her versatility, including her stirring performance as Dorothy Gale in “The Wizard of Oz” during her second appearance on the show in 2010.
Fans can revisit Hathaway’s enchanting performance as Mary Poppins through the SNL episode, which is available for streaming on Peacock.
This showcases not only Hathaway’s talent but also the vibrant legacy of SNL in supporting artists and delivering unforgettable moments that resonate with audiences. It serves as a reminder of the joy and spontaneity found in live television, particularly from a platform that has launched and nurtured countless careers.
In a world where live performances can often be unpredictable, Hathaway’s standout contribution to SNL exemplifies how art can entertain and uplift, leaving lasting impressions on both the audience and fellow performers.