What's Happening?
On December 20, Ariana Grande returned to host Saturday Night Live (SNL) for the second consecutive year. During her appearance, Grande parodied Mariah Carey's hit 'All I Want for Christmas Is You' and participated in various sketches, including roles as an Elf on the Shelf and Kevin McCallister from Home Alone. The episode featured a 'Random Duet Christmas Spectacular' sketch, where Grande impersonated Katy Perry and Celine Dion. Cher made her first appearance as SNL's musical guest since 2011, performing songs from her 2023 Christmas album, including 'DJ Play a Christmas Song' and a cover of Chuck Berry's 'Run Rudolph Run'. The episode also included impersonations of Bob Dylan, Kate Bush, and others by the SNL cast.
Why It's Important?
Ariana Grande's return to
SNL highlights her continued influence in the entertainment industry, showcasing her versatility as both a host and performer. Her participation in the show, alongside Cher's musical performance, underscores SNL's role as a platform for major artists to reach a broad audience. This episode contributes to the cultural landscape by blending comedy with music, appealing to diverse viewer interests. Additionally, Cher's performance of Christmas songs aligns with the holiday season, potentially boosting interest in her Christmas album. The episode's success could influence future collaborations and guest appearances on SNL, maintaining its relevance in popular culture.
What's Next?
Following her SNL appearance, Ariana Grande is set to embark on her first tour in over six years, starting in June 2026. This tour will likely feature songs from her 2024 album, 'Eternal Sunshine', and could further solidify her status as a leading figure in the music industry. Meanwhile, SNL will continue its 51st season with upcoming hosts and musical guests, including Finn Wolfhard and A$AP Rocky in January. These future episodes will aim to maintain the show's momentum and attract viewers with a mix of comedy and musical performances.
