Ariana Grande returned to the stage of “Saturday Night Live” at 30 Rock as host for the third time, reminiscing about her previous appearance in 2016 when the country was on the brink of electing its first female president. “So, I guess, second time’s the charm?” the 31-year-old singer and actress joked during her monologue.
This time, Grande hosted without being the musical guest, a role that went to Stevie Nicks. Although she promised not to sing during her opening, she quickly broke into song. Grande humorously announced she wouldn’t perform her famous impressions of Britney Spears, Miley Cyrus, and Gwen Stefani, but then proceeded to showcase a snippet of each. Later in the show, she delivered an extended impersonation of Celine Dion.
Grande’s hosting coincided with the promotion of her upcoming film musical “Wicked,” a prequel to “The Wizard of Oz,” set to be released next month. She expressed that portraying the good witch Glinda is a dream come true for any theater enthusiast like her after experiencing significant milestones.
The episode aired amid a surge in ratings for “Saturday Night Live,” presumably due to its 50th season and the ongoing election season. The latest season premiere achieved viewership levels not seen since 2020.
Maya Rudolph kicked off the night’s cold open by reprising her role as Vice President Kamala Harris, joined by former cast members like Andy Samberg and Dana Carvey, who humorously played Harris’ spouse Doug Emhoff and President Joe Biden, respectively. They participated in an election edition of “The Family Feud,” competing against Team Trump.
Kenan Thompson, the longest-serving cast member, resumed his role as host Steve Harvey during the skit, questioning Rudolph as Harris about her recent media appearances. She responded with a lighthearted review of her week, highlighting her efforts to engage various audiences regarding the election.
Current cast member James Austin Johnson portrayed Donald Trump, making a light jab at his opponent’s perceived intelligence, fueling the comedic rivalry.
Stevie Nicks made her first appearance as the “SNL” musical guest in over 40 years, opening with her latest single “The Lighthouse,” before performing her classic hit “Edge of Seventeen” from 1981, dressed in her iconic style.
Next week, Michael Keaton is set to host with Billie Eilish as the musical guest, followed by John Mulaney and Chappell Roan on the subsequent Saturday.
As “Saturday Night Live” enters its 50th season, the nostalgia and reflection have begun, including a movie titled “Saturday Night,” which dramatizes the moments leading up to the premiere of the iconic show on October 11, 1975. A three-hour primetime special is slated for February 16 to officially celebrate the milestone season.