On the much-anticipated season premiere of Saturday Night Live, host Bad Bunny took the stage, delivering a powerful response to the recent uproar surrounding his upcoming Super Bowl halftime show. The opening of the 51st season felt like a masterclass in late-night comedy, featuring a star-studded cast and sharp political commentary that would likely displease President Trump. With Bad Bunny, a global sensation from Puerto Rico, at the helm, the show promised an unforgettable evening.
Leading up to this event, a clip from Bad Bunny’s previous hosting gig circulated widely on social media. In this memorable moment, he confidently declared, “People question my ability to host this show due to my limited English, but let me assure you, I do what I want.” This bold statement perfectly encapsulated Bad Bunny’s unapologetic persona. Clad in diamond chains and unbuttoned shirts, he exuded a carefree yet determined spirit. Regarding his Super Bowl performance, he humorously noted that even Fox News seemed to support his participation.
Empowering messages and cultural pride
In a heartfelt segment of his monologue, delivered primarily in Spanish, Bad Bunny reaffirmed his commitment to his Latin audience. He emphasized that his upcoming Super Bowl appearance would not just be a personal achievement but a collective celebration of Latino culture. “It’s an achievement for all of us,” he proclaimed. “No one can erase what we’ve accomplished.” This sentiment served as a powerful rebuttal to critics who may feel alienated by a mainstream artist who dares to break conventions and speak directly to diverse audiences.
Bad Bunny’s confidence was evident when he addressed potential misunderstandings from his non-Spanish speaking viewers, cheekily suggesting, “If you didn’t understand what I just said, you have four months to learn.” This playful jab at his critics showcased his charisma and ability to connect with fans from all backgrounds.
A comedic exploration of politics
The cold open of the night delved into the chaotic world of Trump’s inner circle, with cast member Colin Jost portraying a caricature of Pete Hegseth. His exaggerated bravado and humorous take on military fitness were both entertaining and thought-provoking. Meanwhile, James Austin Johnson reprised his role as Trump, engaging in witty banter about SNL’s evolving cast and keeping a suspicious eye on newcomer Marcello Hernandez.
Memorable sketches and standout performances
One of the highlights of Bad Bunny’s performance was a skit depicting his love for K-Pop, where he passionately defended the genre as a cultural phenomenon. Dancing to “Golden,” he showcased his natural rhythm, while Bowen Yang joined him, bringing the actual K-Pop artists EJAE, Rei Ami, and Audrey Nuna into the mix for an exhilarating finale.
Hernandez proved to be a fantastic co-star, adding depth to Bad Bunny’s monologue and the skits throughout the night. The chemistry between them hinted at a potential future collaboration in a buddy comedy, which fans would undoubtedly welcome.
Humor and satire on Weekend Update
During the popular segment Weekend Update, Jost delivered one of the night’s best punchlines regarding Elon Musk’s staggering wealth. “Wow, shout-out to Tylenol!” he quipped, eliciting laughter from the audience. Additionally, Jon Hamm made a delightful return to Studio 8H, donning the Hawaiian shirt he wore during Bad Bunny’s previous concert series in Puerto Rico.
One of the most humorous moments unfolded when Bowen Yang appeared as Dobby the House Elf, humorously commenting on J.K. Rowling’s controversial remarks about trans people. His hilarious take on the character, including his self-deprecating humor about the struggles of house elves, added a layer of satire to the evening. “House elves are somehow always the problem,” Yang remarked, poking fun at the absurdity of the situation while highlighting the ongoing conversations about representation and inclusivity.
Bad Bunny’s return to SNL was a dynamic blend of cultural celebration, humor, and political commentary. He not only responded to the criticisms surrounding his performance but also stood as a beacon of empowerment for his fans, proving that laughter and pride can transcend barriers.
