Ariana Grande has only hosted Saturday Night Live (SNL) once: on March 12, 2016, during Season 41. Her appearance was widely praised for her incredible comedic timing, impressive vocal impersonations, and all-around versatility.
A Star is Born: Grande’s SNL Hosting Debut
Ariana Grande’s single episode as host of SNL is a testament to her multi-faceted talent. Beyond being a pop music sensation, she showcased her ability to command a live audience, deliver comedic lines with precision, and flawlessly embody various characters. The episode solidified her image as not just a singer, but as a genuine entertainer.
Memorable Moments and Sketches
The episode boasted several standout moments, etched in the memories of SNL fans. The “Tidal” sketch, where Grande impersonated several prominent singers, including Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Shakira, and Rihanna, remains a viral sensation. Her uncanny ability to mimic their unique vocal styles and mannerisms was met with widespread acclaim. Another notable sketch was “The Music of Silence”, a darkly comedic piece that highlighted Grande’s willingness to push boundaries and embrace unconventional humor.
Behind the Scenes: The Making of an SNL Episode
Preparing for an SNL episode is a grueling process that demands dedication, adaptability, and a collaborative spirit. Hosts typically arrive in New York City early in the week to begin rehearsals with the SNL cast and writing team.
The Weeklong Grind
The week preceding the live broadcast is a whirlwind of script readings, character development, costume fittings, and technical rehearsals. Hosts work closely with the writers to fine-tune the sketches and ensure their comedic delivery is on point. The atmosphere is high-pressure, but also incredibly creative, as everyone collaborates to create a memorable show. Ariana Grande reportedly embraced this challenge wholeheartedly, showcasing her work ethic and enthusiasm.
The Live Performance
The live performance is the culmination of all the hard work put in throughout the week. The energy in the studio audience is palpable, and the host must be prepared for anything – from unexpected technical glitches to spontaneous ad-libs. The spontaneity of live television is part of what makes SNL so captivating. Grande reportedly handled the pressure with grace and confidence, delivering a performance that exceeded expectations.
FAQs: Unveiling More About Ariana Grande’s SNL Hosting Experience
Below are answers to frequently asked questions regarding Ariana Grande’s memorable SNL hosting gig:
FAQ 1: Was Ariana Grande also the musical guest on the episode she hosted?
Yes, Ariana Grande was both the host and the musical guest on the March 12, 2016 episode of SNL. This meant a double workload, requiring her to not only deliver comedic performances but also showcase her musical talent. She performed two songs: “Dangerous Woman” and “Be Alright”.
FAQ 2: What other celebrities appeared in that episode?
Besides the regular SNL cast, the episode featured Larry David in a cameo during the cold open, reprising his popular impression of Bernie Sanders. His appearance added further star power to an already highly anticipated show.
FAQ 3: What were some of the critical reviews of Ariana Grande’s SNL performance?
Critical reviews of Grande’s hosting debut were largely positive. Many praised her impeccable impersonations, her comedic timing, and her willingness to embrace absurd humor. Some critics noted a few sketches were weaker than others, but overall, Grande’s performance was considered a resounding success.
FAQ 4: Can I watch Ariana Grande’s SNL episode online?
Yes, various segments and highlights from Ariana Grande’s SNL episode can be found on YouTube and the official SNL website. Full episodes are often available on streaming platforms like Peacock, depending on licensing agreements.
FAQ 5: Did Ariana Grande participate in any Weekend Update segments during her hosting gig?
Yes, Ariana Grande did appear on Weekend Update. She played herself as a teenager who was overly invested in Drake’s album “Views”. The segment was well-received and highlighted Grande’s ability to play a relatable and humorous character.
FAQ 6: Has Ariana Grande hosted SNL more than once?
As stated initially, Ariana Grande has only hosted SNL once. Despite the success of her debut, she hasn’t returned to host another episode as of the current date.
FAQ 7: What was the highest-rated sketch from Ariana Grande’s SNL episode?
While ratings vary across different platforms and time periods, the “Tidal” sketch consistently ranks as the most popular and highly viewed sketch from the episode. Its viral success cemented its place as a defining moment in Grande’s SNL performance.
FAQ 8: How did Ariana Grande prepare for her SNL impersonations?
Grande is known for her talent for mimicry. She likely spent considerable time studying videos of the singers she impersonated in the “Tidal” sketch, paying close attention to their vocal inflections, mannerisms, and stage presence. Her natural ability combined with dedicated preparation contributed to the accuracy and comedic effect of her impressions.
FAQ 9: Did Ariana Grande write any of the sketches herself?
While the specific writing credits are not publicly available, it’s standard practice for SNL hosts to collaborate with the writing team on the sketches. Grande likely contributed ideas, improvised lines, and helped shape the characters she portrayed.
FAQ 10: Were there any controversies surrounding Ariana Grande’s SNL episode?
There were no major controversies surrounding Ariana Grande’s SNL episode. The episode was generally well-received by audiences and critics alike.
FAQ 11: What other musical guests have hosted SNL?
Many musicians have successfully hosted SNL, including Justin Timberlake, Taylor Swift, Harry Styles, and Miley Cyrus. Hosting and performing as the musical guest requires a unique set of skills and a willingness to embrace both comedic and musical challenges.
FAQ 12: Will Ariana Grande host SNL again in the future?
While there are no confirmed plans for Ariana Grande to host SNL again, given the positive reception of her previous appearance, it’s certainly a possibility. Her continued success and evolving comedic skills could make her a highly sought-after host in the future. Fans eagerly await the potential return of this talented performer to the SNL stage.