Saturday Night Live (SNL) and Host Selection
Saturday Night Live (SNL) is one of the longest-running and most popular sketch comedy shows in history. Since its inception in 1975, it has become a cultural phenomenon, with a dedicated fan base that eagerly awaits each episode.
The Selection Process for SNL Hosts
SNL is known for its diverse lineup of hosts, ranging from actors and comedians to musicians and politicians. The selection process for SNL hosts is a closely guarded secret, but we can gather some insights from the show’s producers and past hosts.
- Popularity: SNL producers look for hosts who have a strong following and are well-known in popular culture. This can include actors from hit movies or TV shows, successful musicians, or even politicians with high approval ratings.
- Comedic talent: While popularity is important, SNL also looks for hosts who have strong comedic skills. The show’s success is built on its ability to make people laugh, and producers want to ensure that the host can deliver the goods.
- Diversity: SNL values diversity in its lineup of hosts and aims to showcase a range of talents and perspectives. This includes hosts from different ethnic backgrounds, genders, and sexual orientations.
- Availability: SNL producers need to find hosts who are available for the scheduled dates of the show. This can be a challenge, especially during busy periods like award season or filming schedules.
- Chemistry with cast members: Finally, SNL looks for hosts who have good chemistry with the show’s cast members. The host will be working closely with the cast for several weeks leading up to the episode, and producers want to ensure that there is a good vibe between them.
The Impact of Host Choices on Viewership
Once SNL has selected its host, the next question becomes: how will this impact viewership? Research has shown that the choice of host can have a significant impact on the success of an episode.
- Popularity: As mentioned earlier, SNL producers look for hosts who have a strong following. When a popular host is selected, this can drive up viewership as fans tune in to see their favorite star in action.
- Comedic talent: A talented and funny host can make the show more enjoyable and memorable for viewers. Research has shown that episodes hosted by comedians tend to have higher ratings than those hosted by non-comedy hosts.
- Diversity: Diverse hosts can bring a fresh perspective to the show and appeal to a wider audience. This can help to broaden SNL’s appeal and increase viewership among underrepresented groups.
- Availability: When SNL producers are able to secure a popular and talented host who is available for the scheduled dates, this can lead to higher viewership as fans eagerly anticipate the episode.
- Chemistry with cast members: Finally, when the host has good chemistry with the cast, this can make the show feel more like a family and create a more enjoyable viewing experience. This can help to build loyalty among viewers and keep them coming back for more.
Real-Life Examples of SNL Hosts and Their Impact on Viewership
To illustrate how the selection of SNL hosts can impact viewership, let’s take a look at some real-life examples.
- Dave Chappelle: In 2016, SNL hosted its first ever episode hosted by a stand-up comedian in over 40 years. Dave Chappelle was a popular choice, as he had a strong following among comedy fans and was known for his sharp wit and insightful commentary on contemporary issues. The episode received critical acclaim and drew high ratings, with many viewers praising Chappelle’s performance.
- Emma Stone: In 2017, SNL hosted an episode featuring actress Emma Stone as its host. Stone was a good fit for the show, as she had previously appeared on SNL in several sketches and was well-known for her comedic chops. The episode received mixed reviews, with some viewers praising Stone’s performance and others feeling that she didn’t quite fit the SNL mold.
- John Mulaney: In 2019, SNL hosted an episode featuring comedian John Mulaney as its host. Mulaney was a popular choice, as he had recently released a successful stand-up special and was known for his unique brand of humor. The episode received high ratings and positive reviews, with many viewers praising Mulaney’s performance and calling it one of the best SNL episodes of recent memory.
- Kamala Harris: In 2021, SNL hosted an episode featuring Vice President Kamala Harris as its host. This was a historic event, as Harris was the first woman, the first person of color, and the first South Asian American to host SNL. The episode received mixed reviews, with some viewers praising Harris’s performance and others feeling that she wasn’t quite up to the task of hosting the show.
Summary
In conclusion, the selection of SNL hosts is a crucial part of the show’s success. Producers must consider factors such as popularity, comedic talent, diversity, availability, and chemistry with cast members when choosing their host. By selecting the right host, SNL can drive up viewership and create a memorable viewing experience for its fans.
