Lorne Michaels, the creator of Saturday Night Live, is known for his aloof and philosophical demeanor. When reflecting on the show’s history, he often doesn’t openly express regret but his actions speak volumes. For instance, when a cast member is let go after only a season or two, it suggests that Michaels may have regretted hiring them. On the other hand, when former writers like Tina Fey and John Mulaney become frequent hosts, it could be interpreted as Michaels recognizing their talent and wishing he had given them more on-screen opportunities during their time on the show.
John Mulaney, a former writer turned frequent host, has quickly risen to the ranks of hosting six times on SNL. His episodes stand out for their auteurist style, showcasing his unique comedic voice. Despite having recurring sketches, Mulaney’s episodes are known for their confident and well-developed sketches, even when they are few in number.
One of Mulaney’s signature sketches involves musical spoofs based on New York City themes. While some iterations may have lost their initial surprise factor, the recent sketch featuring Broadway parodies felt refreshing and entertaining. Mulaney’s episodes are characterized by their writerly pieces with quirky humor and unexpected twists, making them a delight for viewers.
In a recent episode, Mulaney brought back the popular sketch “What’s That Name?” with an election-themed twist, adding a sharp political bite to the show. The episode also featured a fake ad for a New York City assemblyman named Harvey Epstein, injecting absurdity into the political ad-heavy broadcast.
While Mulaney’s hosting style may not appeal to everyone, his episodes are a testament to his comedic talent and unique approach to sketch comedy. With his knack for blending New York City grittiness with Broadway flamboyance, Mulaney continues to captivate audiences with his offbeat humor and memorable performances.
Looking ahead, the upcoming episode with Bill Burr as the host promises to bring a different comedic flavor to SNL. As the show navigates through uncertain times, diverse hosts like Burr add a touch of unpredictability and excitement to the lineup.
Overall, John Mulaney’s hosting style may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but his episodes are a testament to his comedic talent and unique approach to sketch comedy. With a mix of quirky humor, unexpected twists, and memorable performances, Mulaney continues to captivate audiences with his offbeat charm and distinctive style on Saturday Night Live.
