Nikki Glaser, who rose to prominence in the mainstream comedy scene with her compelling performances, including the memorable “The Roast of Tom Brady” and her comedy special “Someday You’ll Die,” took to the stage as the host of “Saturday Night Live” for the first time. Her reputation for pushing comedic boundaries made her a fitting choice for the current dynamic of the show, which often revels in edgy humor and controversial topics.
Glaser showcased her talents through a range of sketches that emphasized her distinctive comedic style. Her monologue, while packed with her characteristic bold humor, reflected a more condensed version of her stand-up persona, featuring jokes on race, politics, and taboo subjects. Although some jokes hit harder than others during her set, they highlighted her unapologetic approach to comedy, questioning societal norms while addressing themes that resonate with contemporary audiences.
One notable highlight of the night included a sketch about family members engaging in karaoke with an unsettling closeness, as well as a bizarre yet hilarious musical number depicting a mechanical bull incident with Glaser and Sarah Sherman. Other successful sketches included a commercial featuring grown men fixated on life-size American Girl dolls and a humorous ad about a fictional drug that helps celebrities avoid high-pressure situations. Glaser’s ability to navigate these comedic scenarios was a testament to her skill and comfort on stage.
However, not all sketches resonated equally. A mismatched parody titled “Beauty and Mr. Beast” and a less engaging sorority sketch featuring Mikey Day fell flat in comparison to the more successful bits. Despite this, Glaser’s energy and performances generally kept the evening engaging.
Musical guest Sombr delivered their songs “12 to 12” and “Back to Friends,” contributing to the overall entertainment of the episode. Additionally, a touching animated short titled “Brad and His Dad” added a contrastingly sweet element, illustrating the challenges of communication between a divorced father and his young son obsessed with video games.
The night also featured a cold open where James Austin Johnson portrayed former President Trump, humorously commenting on a recent White House incident involving a collapsing pharmaceutical representative. With sharp wit, the skit integrated current events and provided satirical commentary on political situations, encapsulating the fabric of “SNL” humor.
Overall, Glaser’s debut as host was marked by a blend of hits and misses, but her comedic versatility and boldness undoubtedly made an impression. The episode demonstrated the ongoing evolution of “Saturday Night Live” as it embraces provocative humor while tackling contemporary issues. Despite the mixed success of some sketches, Glaser’s contributions showcased her unique flair, leaving the audience hopeful for her future projects in comedy.