Tom Hanks kicked off the 2024 season finale of “Saturday Night Live” with an electric welcome from the audience in Studio 8H. Dressed in the iconic Five-Timers Club jacket, Hanks humorously acknowledged his role in establishing the celebrated club back in December 1990, saying it was a clever way to sidestep writing a monologue. He introduced the evening’s purpose: to welcome a new member into this exclusive club.
Paul Rudd joined Hanks on stage, asking with a playful tone whom Hanks was addressing. Hanks responded, showing his familiarity with documentary work by joking about always assuming he’s in an interview when seated in a leather chair.
The excitement escalated with the arrival of Martin Short, who was greeted with hilarity and warmth as he joined the festivities. Tina Fey, a former head writer for “SNL,” followed suit, celebrating Short’s induction. Current cast member Bowen Yang contributed by serving martinis dubbed “Marty-tinis,” described humorously by Rudd.
The night continued with appearances by Alec Baldwin, Scarlett Johansson, and Kristen Wiig, each adding their unique flair to the sketches. Baldwin humorously noted his reputation for portraying Republican characters, while Johansson’s comedic timing shone through her interactions with her husband, Colin Jost.
The atmosphere was filled with laughter as the group shared outlandish secrets and anecdotes that highlighted their camaraderie. The excitement crescendoed when Melissa McCarthy and Emma Stone made surprise appearances, bringing more humor and spontaneity to the gathering.
In a heartfelt moment, Jimmy Fallon presented Short with his Five-Timers Club jacket, which surprisingly turned out to be a women’s small. Ultimately, the entire group unified in the iconic sign-off, “Live, from New York, it’s Saturday Night!” ushering in the final episode of the year with an impressive energy.
As a bonus for viewers, Hozier served as the musical guest for this special finale, promising an entertaining show.
This episode exemplifies the enduring legacy of “Saturday Night Live” and the bonds formed among its cast and former members. Hanks and Short’s playful banter and the camaraderie shared on stage underscore the show’s joyful spirit and the cherished traditions that continue to engage audiences.
In summary, the finale highlighted laughter, friendship, and the unique culture of SNL, leaving viewers with warm memories and a sense of excitement for future seasons. It’s a lovely reminder of how shared humor and creativity can create lasting connections in the entertainment industry.