Marcello Hernández, a star of Saturday Night Live, draws significant inspiration from his parents, particularly his mother, Isabel. The comedian, whose first Netflix special, “Marcello Hernández: American Boy,” premiered in January 2026, often infuses elements of his Cuban-American upbringing into his comedy routines. Born and raised in Miami to a Cuban mother and a Dominican father, Hernández leverages his familial experiences to connect with audiences.
In an interview, Hernández highlighted the influence his mother has on his work, stating, “A lot of the jokes I say and the stuff that I write has to do with our relationship growing up.” His mother’s journey, which involved escaping Cuba at the age of 12 and eventually earning a college degree while pregnant with him, serves as a powerful backdrop for his humor and respect for her sacrifices.
One memorable SNL moment for Hernández was his viral “Protective Mom” sketch, which effortlessly showcases his mother’s personality. This sketch, which featured actor Pedro Pascal, humorously portrays the dynamics of introducing a new girlfriend to a protective Latina mother. Hernández credited the premise to Pascal’s idea and channeled his mother’s essence in his performance. He emphasized that her traits, like her disbelief in ADD and her humorous takes on everyday life, often inspire his comedic content.
Growing up in an immigrant household shaped Hernández’s worldview, leading to funny anecdotes that he shares during his stand-up performances. He often shares moments of cultural misunderstandings and language differences between his parents, adding another layer of relatability to his comedy.
Isabel’s involvement in Hernández’s journey extends beyond just inspiration; she appeared alongside him in a T-Mobile advertisement that showcased their playful interaction. The two have often walked the red carpet together, further marking their close relationship.
During a recent appearance on “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” Hernández publicly acknowledged his mom, expressing his gratitude for her sacrifices and love. This emotional moment resonated deeply, reflecting their strong bond.
Marcello Hernández’s comedy serves as a tribute to his roots and the resilience of his family, particularly his mother’s journey from Cuba to America. As he continues to rise in the entertainment industry, his intimate tales infused with humor not only entertain but also shed light on the immigrant experience, making his work relatable to many.