Is SNL still worth watching?
The American comedy series has faced increased scrutiny, but not all hope is lost
Saturday Night Live debuted in 1975. (NBC/Wikimedia Commons)
Saturday Night Live (SNL) has been a staple of American comedy since its debut in 1975. Over five decades, it has launched countless comedians’ careers and produced iconic sketches that have become a part of pop culture history.
However, as SNL approaches its 50th anniversary in February, the show faces increasing scrutiny, particularly from younger generations, like gen Z, who often find its humour outdated, forced, or simply unfunny.
One of the main critiques of modern SNL is its tendency to lean on cringeworthy humour when tackling topics like workplace dynamics, politics, or pop culture. The show’s writers sometimes seem to struggle connecting with a generation that values authenticity and wit over slapstick or overtly staged scenarios.
A prime example of this disconnect is the infamous “Hooters Waitress” sketch, featuring guest host Sydney Sweeney. Despite being one of the most-viewed sketches of recent seasons, with 6.9-million YouTube views, the episode drew heavy criticism.
Comments on the video highlighted the lackluster script and Sweeney’s uninspired performance, pointing out that the focus seemed to be more on her revealing outfit than on delivering clever or meaningful humour. The attempt to sexualize the sketch felt like a cheap move, leaving many viewers disappointed.
This reliance on star power over comedic talent has also become a recurring issue. SNL has often booked hosts and musical guests for their popularity rather than their comedic chops. While this strategy may boost ratings in the short term, it often results in unmemorable episodes that fail to resonate with audiences. Sweeney’s episode serves as a case study in this approach as the show prioritized her celebrity status over creating a compelling or humorous narrative.
Yet, not all is bleak for SNL. Some of the show’s brightest recent moments have come from its embrace of diverse cultural perspectives, particularly through the inclusion of Latino hosts and performers.
The “Protective Mom” sketches, featuring Marcello Hernandez, Pedro Pascal, and Bad Bunny, are standout examples. With 8.2 and 7.9-million views respectively, these sketches were praised for their sharp writing, hilarious performances, and genuine relatability.
Similarly, Ana de Armas’s guest appearance in the “Spanish Class” sketch offered a refreshing change of pace. She delivered a performance that was both funny and charming, proving that comedy doesn’t have to lean on excessive sexualization to succeed. Her natural charisma and ability to connect with the material resonated with audiences, demonstrating how SNL can still create memorable moments when it prioritizes quality over gimmicks.
These successes suggest that SNL might find its way forward by embracing diversity and crafting sketches that reflect the realities and experiences of its increasingly global audience. Gen Z, in particular, gravitates toward humour that feels authentic and represents their values, whether it’s through cultural specificity, clever satire, or genuinely funny performances. The rise of Latino-themed sketches highlights how cultural identity can serve as a source of humour without resorting to tired clichés or alienating viewers.
So is SNL still worth watching? The answer depends on your expectations. The show continues to oscillate between cringeworthy misses and genuine hits. For longtime fans, it’s still an important part of comedy history and a platform for fresh talent. For others, especially younger viewers, SNL’s inconsistency and occasional lack of self-awareness make it a frustrating experience.
If the show hopes to maintain its relevance in the ever-evolving comedic landscape, it needs to lean into what works — authentic representation, clever writing, and guest hosts who bring more than just star power to the table. For now, the challenge lies in making those moments the norm rather than the exception.
