Chris Rock made his fourth appearance as host on “Saturday Night Live,” and he didn’t hold back in his opening monologue. With the familiar backdrop of Studio 8H, adorned for Christmas, Rock humorously addressed a variety of current events, including the recent political happenings involving President Biden and his son Hunter.
Rock began his seven-minute monologue by commenting on the chaotic landscape of today’s news. “There’s a lot going on in the news, my God, it’s so crazy out there,” he remarked, setting the tone for a night filled with humor and observations.
One of the focal points of Rock’s routine was President Biden’s controversial decision to pardon his son, Hunter Biden. “The big story this week. Joe Biden pardoned his son,” Rock stated, adding a dose of humor about the president’s age. “I gotta hand it to Joe, he don’t move as fast as he used to, he don’t talk as fast as he used to,” Rock said, mimicking slow movement across the stage. He then delivered a punchline that resonated with the audience: “But that middle finger still works,” referring to Biden’s recent actions as a father.
Rock’s joke about the situation touched on a universal theme of parental instinct. “Only an animal would not pardon your son. Every parent in the world would pardon their son, except the parents of the Menendez Brothers,” he quipped, drawing laughter from the crowd while highlighting the importance of family loyalty.
Interestingly, Rock chose not to address his own dramatic moment during the Oscars, when he received a slap from actor Will Smith after making a joke about Smith’s wife. Instead, he shifted focus back to the comedic elements of the news, reinforcing his role as a prominent figure in comedy who can navigate complex situations with humor.
Rock’s history with “Saturday Night Live” is rich; he was part of the original cast from 1990 to 1993. During that time, he shared the stage with comedic legends like Adam Sandler, Chris Farley, and Phil Hartman. His return to “SNL” was particularly noted due to the significant changes in his career and personal life since then, making each appearance feel special.
Beyond “SNL,” Chris Rock has become one of the most celebrated stand-up comedians in America. His specials like “Bring The Pain” and “Never Scared” showcased his unique perspective on life, often combining humor with poignant social commentary. His latest work, “Collective Outrage,” continues to solidify his status in the comedy world.
In addition to stand-up comedy, Rock has also made a mark as a filmmaker, directing notable projects such as “I Think I Love My Wife,” “Top Five,” and “Head of State.” Each of these films reflects his ability to tackle serious themes while keeping audiences entertained.
Hosting “SNL” offers Rock a platform to engage with pressing issues while staying true to his comedic roots. With keen observations and a lighthearted approach, he addresses subjects that many find challenging, reminding viewers that laughter can often provide a much-needed break from the polarizing headlines of the day.
As America heads into a new political landscape, voices like Rock’s are increasingly important to maintain a balance of thought and humor, especially when discussing the actions of those in power. By engaging with current events in this way, he ensures that his comedic style continues to resonate with audiences, providing both laughter and a moment of reflection.
In times of uncertainty, the ability to find humor in the chaos remains a treasured skill, and Rock undoubtedly continues to shine as a beacon of comedy in such times.
