John Mulaney's "SNL" Return: A Hilarious Dive into Dad Life, Obsession, and Existential Dread
John Mulaney, the king of neurotic comedy, returned to Saturday Night Live this weekend, and he brought his signature brand of humor to the stage. Mulaney’s monologue was a masterclass in relatable absurdity, full of observations on fatherhood, his love for Ozark, and his very specific anxieties. He’s a dad now, and it’s clear that his life has been irrevocably changed. But don't worry – Mulaney's still the same hilarious, self-deprecating guy we know and love, just with a few more gray hairs (and maybe a bit more existential dread).
A Monologue for the Ages
Mulaney’s monologue was a classic example of how to be funny and relatable at the same time. He's a master of taking the mundane and turning it into something hilarious. His observations on the absurdities of everyday life, from the difficulty of getting a kid to sleep to the peculiar way his wife likes her eggs, were instantly relatable to anyone who's ever been a parent (or knows someone who is).
But the real highlight of his monologue was his self-deprecating humor. He was unafraid to poke fun at his own anxieties and quirks, especially his love of Ozark, a show he described as being "like a hostage situation I choose to watch every week." His openness and willingness to laugh at himself made him even more charming and endearing to the audience.
Sketches That Hit the Mark
Mulaney’s sketches also showcased his comedic talent, with a few standouts worth mentioning. He played a hilarious "Weekend Update" segment as a new correspondent, alongside the ever-so-dry Colin Jost. The skit perfectly captured the absurdity of cable news, with Mulaney's character delivering cringe-worthy takes on current events with a deadpan delivery that was both funny and spot-on.
Another sketch that stood out was the "The Dentist," a clever take on the anxieties of going to the dentist. Mulaney played a patient whose fear of needles and dental tools was amplified by the dentist's (played by Cecily Strong) lack of bedside manner. The skit was full of physical comedy and witty dialogue that made for some truly laugh-out-loud moments.
A Master of the Art of "SNL"
Mulaney's episode of SNL was a triumph of comedic timing, relatable observations, and an endearing blend of self-deprecation and genuine humor. He proved that even with the added pressure of being a new dad, his comedic genius remains as sharp as ever. Whether it was his monologue, his "Weekend Update" performance, or his hilarious sketches, Mulaney's SNL return was a joy to watch.
His ability to seamlessly blend his signature humor with the classic SNL formula is a testament to his comedic talent, and a reminder that sometimes the most relatable comedy is the kind that makes us laugh at ourselves, our anxieties, and the messy joys of everyday life.