Introduction

On a recent episode of ‘Saturday Night Live,’ Jon Hamm returned as host for the fourth time, promoting his new Apple TV+ series, “Your Friends & Neighbors.” Hamm’s experience from previous appearances infused the evening with a sense of familiarity and anticipation for viewers.

Monologue and Opening Sketch

Hamm kicked off the episode with a self-referential monologue, humorously showcasing his IMDb page and discussing his 14 cameos on ‘SNL’ since 2010, stating, “Anytime they call me to come on the show, I do it. I love watching myself.” He was soon joined by Oscar-winning actor Kieran Culkin, where they engaged in playful banter, comparing their shows “Mad Men” and “Succession.”

The opening sketch introduced Hamm as a nervous dentist in a game-show setting, leading to a comedic exploration of embarrassment. He also took on various roles including a co-host on a mock financial news program and a father in a surreal scenario involving a baby showing the face of Lizzo.

Notable Sketches

Parody of ‘The White Lotus’

One of the evening’s highlights was a pre-recorded sketch parodying HBO’s “The White Lotus.” Hamm appeared briefly but left a mark with his role as Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. The sketch featured appearances from past ‘SNL’ cast members and captured the show’s distinctive visual style with a comedic touch focused on political themes.

Financial News Channel Segment

In another sketch titled “Check-to-Check Business News Channel,” Hamm and Ego Nwodim comically misinterpret financial jargon while lamenting rising costs of everyday items. This segment emphasized the absurdities people face in today’s economic climate, with humorous commentary on student loans and consumer goods.

Musical Performance

The musical guest for the night was Lizzo, who made a statement with her outfits featuring the phrases “Tarrified” and “Black women were right.” Her performance included a medley of “Love in Real Life / Still Bad” and “Don’t Make Me Love You,” showcasing her powerful vocal presence and unique style.

Weekend Update Segment

This week’s “Weekend Update” segment featured various guest appearances, including Bowen Yang reprising his role as Chen Biao, the Chinese trade minister. Biao addressed issues related to the ongoing trade war, delivering sharp commentary on American culture and economics, effectively using humor to shed light on serious topics.

Conclusion

Overall, Jon Hamm’s episode of ‘Saturday Night Live’ delivered a dynamic mixture of humor and social commentary, with notable sketches that engaged the audience. While some segments may not have fully capitalized on Hamm’s comedic talents, the episode maintained a strong balance of nostalgia and contemporary satire.