On October 12, 2023, Ariana Grande graced the Saturday Night Live stage for a second time this year, this time taking on the role of host after having dazzled audiences previously as a musical guest in March. Grande, who has become synonymous with powerful vocal performances and undeniable charisma, utilized her opening monologue to reflect on her remarkable year, which included her much-anticipated participation in the film adaptation of Wicked. This moment not only set the tone for the evening but also confirmed her multi-dimensional talents as both a performer and a storyteller.
The evening wasn’t just about Grande holding the hosting reins. The energy kicked off strong with her showcasing her vocal prowess, blending comedy with music seamlessly. Though the spotlight also belonged to the legendary Stevie Nicks, who served as the official musical guest, Grande managed to carve out moments for herself that shone through her comedic sketches. One notable instance was her portrayal of a quirky bridesmaid who, during a toast, decided to take a humorous jab at the bride with altered lyrics from Sabrina Carpenter’s song “Espresso.” This satirical approach highlighted not only Grande’s singing ability but also her sharp wit, even when injecting dark humor into a seemingly light-hearted scenario.
Throughout the night, viewers were treated to an array of sketches that allowed Grande to explore diverse themes. In a pre-recorded segment, she nostalgically serenaded her best friend’s home, reminiscing childhood memories that took an unexpected and humorous turn with the visual of a severed head. This blend of nostalgia and absurdity became a hallmark of her performance, showcasing how she can deftly balance sweet sentimentality and macabre comedy. Such bold contrasts prove Grande’s range as an actress, willing to take risks for the sake of humor.
In a particularly memorable sketch that featured her friend Bowen Yang, Grande transformed into a cutthroat mom in a game of charades, allowing her competitive streak to manifest through comedy. Their playful banter highlighted Grande’s ability to commit fully to character, making her portrayal compelling and entertaining. Known for her musical impressions, she delivered a fabulous rendition of Celine Dion, further emphasizing her talent in mimicking iconic figures.
The evening was also highlighted by her portrayal of a young boy named Antonio in an Italian Renaissance-themed sketch, which included surprise cameos from noted performers like Maya Rudolph and Andy Samberg. Grande’s versatility was evident as she tackled rapid-fire noir dialogue in a black-and-white segment. Her impression of comedian Jennifer Coolidge further showcased her comedic range, cementing her reputation as more than just a pop star but a talented performer across multiple entertainment domains.
Ariana Grande’s second hosting stint on Saturday Night Live was not only a celebration of her musical talents but also a testament to her expanding comedic repertoire. By blending humor with nostalgia, Grande gave her audiences a night filled with laughter and awe, thereby solidifying her status in the entertainment world. She continues to evolve as an artist, pushing boundaries and exploring new territory with each performance.
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