Walton Goggins Takes the Reins as Host of Saturday Night Live

On May 10, a new era began for Saturday Night Live (SNL) as Walton Goggins took to the stage to host his first episode. The talented actor, best known for his breakout role in the HBO series The White Lotus, brought a unique energy to the show, reflecting on the internet's fascination with one of his most iconic characters.

A Look Back at Rick Hatchett

As Goggins sat down with Lorne Michaels, the long-time executive producer and host of SNL, he couldn't help but reminisce about his time playing the lovable yet eccentric Rick Hatchett on The White Lotus. For those unfamiliar, Rick is a complex character known for his wit, charm, and peculiar behavior.

Throughout his time on the show, Goggins' portrayal of Rick earned him widespread critical acclaim and recognition. His performance brought depth to the character, showcasing his ability to balance humor with nuance.

Internet Interest in Rick Hatchett

Goggins began his monologue by poking fun at the internet's peculiar fascination with Rick Hatchett. "I've been online for years, and it seems like there are people out there who actually care about Rick," he joked. The audience erupted into laughter as Goggins continued to explore this phenomenon.

Monologue Highlights

Throughout his monologue, Goggins wove in humorous anecdotes and observations about life on the internet. He poked fun at the latest social media trends, from TikTok to Instagram, showcasing his quick wit and sharp tongue.

Goggins also took a moment to discuss his own online presence, acknowledging that he's both an advocate for and a victim of internet culture. "I'm not sure what's more impressive – my ability to make a decent taco or my ability to survive on Twitter," he quipped.

Musical Performances

Following his monologue, Goggins was joined by musical guest Billie Eilish, who delivered an electrifying performance of her hit song "Bad Guy." The energy in the studio was palpable as Eilish's unique sound captivated the audience and left them eagerly anticipating her next move.

Sketches and Segments

The evening's sketches were a masterclass in comedic storytelling. Goggins starred alongside Kate McKinnon, Chloe Fineman, and other talented cast members in a series of hilarious sketches that tackled topics from politics to pop culture.

One particular sketch caught the audience's attention: "The Great Debate." In this clever send-up of modern-day debates, Goggins played a charismatic moderator who struggled to keep up with his own arguments. The sketch was filled with witty one-liners and hilarious physical comedy, showcasing Goggins' impressive range as a comedic performer.

Special Guests

Throughout the episode, Goggins was joined by several special guests, including comedic duo Pete Davidson and Colin Jost. Together, they delivered a series of side-splitting sketches that left the audience in stitches.

One particularly memorable segment featured Goggins and his castmates playing a group of bumbling office workers who were trying to figure out how to use a new piece of technology. The sketch was filled with hilarious misunderstandings and awkward interactions, showcasing the cast's exceptional chemistry.

Closing Thoughts

As the episode drew to a close, Goggins reflected on his experience hosting SNL. "I've never felt so alive," he said, beaming with pride. The audience applauded warmly as Goggins bid farewell, leaving fans eagerly anticipating his next appearance on the show.

With The White Lotus star Walton Goggins at the helm, Saturday Night Live delivered a standout episode that showcased the cast's incredible talent and versatility. As Goggins continued to explore the world of internet culture and comedy, it was clear that he had a bright future ahead of him in the world of SNL.

Key Takeaways:

• Walton Goggins hosted his first episode of Saturday Night Live on May 10.
• He reflected on the internet's fascination with his character Rick Hatchett from The White Lotus.
• The monologue was filled with humorous anecdotes and observations about life on the internet.
• Billie Eilish delivered an electrifying musical performance as the evening's guest artist.
• Goggins starred in a series of hilarious sketches alongside cast members, showcasing his impressive range as a comedic performer.