Actor and comedian Jack Black brought his musical talents back to the 49-year-old, iconic NBC sketch show “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) on March 1, 2023. This was his fifth time hosting the legendary show. Black himself has a storied past with the show. He hosted it in 2002, 2003, and 2005, and in 2006 he famously appeared as the show’s musical guest with his band Tenacious D. His past episodes have been heavy hitters. They include our favorite SNL evergreen sketches like “Lazy Sunday” and “Christmastime for the Jews.”
This new episode—a return to our live stage, featuring Black—was no exception. It included music icons and social justice advocates, Elton John & Brandi Carlile. John, who made his SNL debut in 1982 alongside Johnny Cash, returned to perform alongside Carlile, who first graced the SNL stage in 2021 with Jason Sudeikis. Carlile made her return as a musical guest in December 2022. She was one of the artists who performed on an episode hosted by the iconic comedy duo, Steve Martin and Martin Short.
Black knocked the title track out of the universe with passionate, pop-edged energy, reeling in the already-rapt audience. He played “Little Richard’s Bible” against a colorful, pulsing neon heaven of lights. In many ways, the episode was a triumphant return for SNL. It was one of the first traditional installments since January, after months of star-studded specials honoring the show’s 50th season. The previous specials included “SNL50: The Homecoming Concert” and “SNL50: The Anniversary Special,” which highlighted the legacy of the show.
Correspondingly, in 2011, Black hosted SNL as well as served as the evening’s musical guest. This now-famous appearance connected him to the program that much more. To this end, he artfully juxtaposes humor with musical numbers. This talent has endeared him to SNL’s rich tapestry of hosts and guests.
Their milestone 50th season of SNL began last September and is still drawing extraordinary talent. Most notably, Lady Gaga proved she was a multi-threat by going double duty on March 8. This unique history of mixing comedic sketches with live musical performances has helped them maintain their popularity and relevance for years to come.