Last weekend, Saturday Night Live celebrated its 50th season with a star-studded show hosted by Jean Smart and featuring musical guest Jelly Roll. The episode included appearances from Jim Gaffigan, Hannah Einbinder, Dana Carvey, Maya Rudolph, and Andy Samberg. Chloe Fineman, a cast member on SNL, chatted about the momentous anniversary episode on The Run-Through podcast with Chloe Malle and Vogue’s Hannah Jackson. Fineman showcased new characters like a Santa Fe Real Housewife, CNN Anchor Kaitlan Collins, and I Love Lucy’s Ethel Merz, but it was her impression of Hailey Welsh—the “Hawk Twah girl”—that required the most nuanced performance, as she revealed she received numerous notes on how to perfect the “Hawk Twah” and spit on the “thang.”
Fineman discussed her back catalog of impressions, expressing her excitement to play Melania Trump again and revealing the story behind her take on JoJo Siwa. She emphasized the importance of fully embodying her characters, attributing it to bringing joy to her performances. Fineman reflected on the investment she and the cast put into their portrayals, leading to the success of their sketches.
The episode marked a significant milestone in SNL’s history, as it celebrated 50 seasons of comedic excellence. In addition to the talented Jean Smart hosting and Jelly Roll performing, the show featured guest appearances from Jim Gaffigan, Hannah Einbinder, Dana Carvey, Maya Rudolph, and Andy Samberg. The presence of SNL alums added to the nostalgia and excitement surrounding the anniversary episode, creating a memorable experience for both the cast and viewers.
Chloe Fineman’s diverse range of characters, including a Santa Fe Real Housewife, CNN Anchor Kaitlan Collins, and I Love Lucy’s Ethel Merz, showcased her versatility and comedic talent. While experimenting with new roles, Fineman’s impression of the “Hawk Twah girl” stood out for its nuanced performance and the meticulous notes she received to perfect the character. Her dedication to embodying each role fully and bringing joy to her performances highlights her commitment to delivering engaging and entertaining sketches on SNL.
Fineman’s discussion on her impressions, particularly Melania Trump and JoJo Siwa, shed light on the creative process behind her character portrayals. By sharing the stories behind her interpretations and emphasizing the importance of bringing joy to her performances, Fineman provides insight into the dedication and passion she brings to her work on SNL. Her ability to captivate audiences with her comedic timing and versatile characterizations further solidifies her role as a valuable member of the SNL cast.
The anniversary episode of SNL not only showcased the comedic talents of the cast but also paid tribute to the show’s rich history and legacy. With iconic guests like Jean Smart and musical performances by Jelly Roll, the 50th season premiere highlighted the show’s enduring appeal and ability to entertain audiences for decades. By incorporating appearances from SNL alums and embracing new characters, the episode captured the essence of SNL’s success over the years, celebrating a milestone achievement in television comedy.
Overall, Chloe Fineman’s contributions to SNL, along with the talented guest appearances and memorable musical performances, made the 50th season premiere a resounding success. The episode’s blend of nostalgia, humor, and fresh talent showcased the show’s ability to evolve while staying true to its comedic roots. As SNL continues to entertain audiences with its unique brand of satire and humor, the 50th season premiere served as a fitting tribute to the show’s enduring legacy and continued impact on the world of television comedy.
