The 2024 season finale of “Saturday Night Live” kicked off with a lively introduction by Tom Hanks, who instantly energized the audience in Studio 8H. Sporting his iconic Five-Timers Club jacket, Hanks humorously shared the origins of the club he created in 1990, which seeks to celebrate the elite group of recurring “SNL” hosts. He revealed that they were there that night to welcome a new member.
Joining Hanks was Paul Rudd, who brought a playful vibe by questioning Hanks’ documentary-style demeanor and then welcoming the surprise guest, Martin Short. The evening continued with a vibrant atmosphere as Tina Fey, Alec Baldwin, Scarlett Johansson, Kristen Wiig, and Melissa McCarthy made surprise appearances, each contributing their unique humor to the celebration. The ensemble shared light banter, showcasing a mix of wit and nostalgia.
John Mulaney kept the surprises coming, dropping in to extend his congratulations, while Hanks called for the “jacket boy,” leading to a comical moment with Jimmy Fallon who presented Short with his Five-Timers Club jacket. The sketch concluded with the ensemble collectively exclaiming, “Live, from New York, it’s Saturday Night!” as the episode’s musical guest, Hozier, prepared to take the stage.
This extraordinary gathering of comedic talent not only highlighted the long-standing legacy of “SNL” but also showcased the camaraderie and shared joy among its members. The celebration underscored the spirit of fun and friendship that is at the heart of the show, leaving viewers with a sense of optimism and nostalgia for the powerful moments created throughout the series’ history.
With such a rich history of collaboration and creativity, “Saturday Night Live” continues to thrive as a cultural phenomenon, eagerly anticipated by fans each week. The heartfelt exchanges and playful interactions from the finale remind us of the joy that comedy can bring, especially when shared among friends.