Paul Mescal made an impressive debut as host of Saturday Night Live, showcasing his comedic talents alongside his established acting career. The star of Gladiator II expressed his excitement about being on the renowned NBC sketch show, humorously acknowledging that he is best known for his serious roles. He quipped about his past performances, suggesting that he has delivered numerous funny moments despite not being primarily recognized for them.
During his monologue, Mescal shared a montage of his most intense dramatic scenes, humorously emphasizing his fearless approach to emotional performances, which included a nod to more risqué moments. “It’s safe to say there’s not a lot of comedy on the resume,” he remarked, adding a light-hearted reflection on his career.
The actor, who proudly identifies as Irish, referenced the resilience of the Irish people, humorously touching upon historical hardships and poking fun at cultural stereotypes. He addressed misconceptions about the Irish, including a humorous take on rumors regarding familial relations, quipping, “We have sex with our second cousins.”
He also made light of the notion that Irish individuals harbor animosity towards the British by stating, “We just don’t consider them people.” Mescal even responded to a question regarding the Notre Dame mascot by jesting about his own high school’s mascot, “the Fighting Fat-Asses.”
As he concluded his monologue, Mescal reflected on his “luck,” expressing astonishment at hosting SNL in New York City, a city filled with endless opportunities and dreams.
This moment marks an exciting chapter in Mescal’s career, proving that actors known for serious roles can successfully branch into comedy. His ability to weave humor into his performance not only entertained audiences but also highlighted the multifaceted nature of his talent. His SNL appearance suggests that we may see more of him in diverse roles, bringing some light-heartedness to his impressive portfolio.
Overall, Mescal’s performance on SNL was a delightful mix of comedy and cultural commentary, reminding us of the importance of humor in navigating complex topics.