Dave Chappelle returned to Saturday Night Live for his fourth hosting stint, and he did not disappoint. The comedian’s monologue, which aired without him initially in November due to a perfect storm of controversy, was a standout. Chappelle reflected on the California wildfires, Trump’s racist attacks on Haitian immigrants, and Diddy’s legal troubles, showcasing his signature blend of humor and commentary.
Chappelle also delivered a sincerely moving message about showing empathy for others, especially displaced people. This statement, which tackled the issue of Palestine with unimpeachable strength, was a welcome respite from the typical SNL fare. It marked a notable shift in Chappelle’s tone, as he has spent years publicly disparaging transgender individuals.
The episode featured several solid sketches, including “Immigrant Dad Talk Show,” which returned to the airwaves after a brief hiatus. However, the writers still relied on cringeworthy white liberals as the butt of the joke, a trope that has become all too familiar in SNL’s portrayal of race relations.
Other highlights included musical guest GloRilla’s performance and Weekend Update’s solid digs at Mark Zuckerberg and Diddy. Michael Che invited cast member Michael Longfellow to plead for the salvation of TikTok, and their exchange was a masterclass in takedown comedy.
The episode concluded with classic characters Silky Johnson and Ashy Larry returning to their roles as playa haters. These recurring bits have become a staple of SNL’s comedic repertoire, and their return was a welcome treat.
Chappelle’s hosting stint marked a turning point in the show’s recent episodes, which had left a sour taste after his initial two appearances. This latest installment proved that Chappelle is back on the right side of history, delivering powerful commentary and solid comedy. The question now remains: how will SNL fare under a second Trump presidency?
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2025/jan/19/saturday-night-live-dave-chappelle