The SNL Surprise: When Seth Meyers Made Weekend Update History!

The SNL Surprise: When Seth Meyers Made Weekend Update History!

Seth Meyers, the witty and erudite host of “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” wasn’t always holding court behind his own desk. Before conquering the world of late-night talk shows, he honed his comedic skills on the hallowed grounds of “Saturday Night Live.” Meyers joined the iconic sketch comedy show in 2001 as a writer and quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming head writer.

His sharp wit and uncanny ability to dissect current events with both humor and intelligence made him a fan favorite. But it was his tenure at the “Weekend Update” desk that truly cemented Meyers’s place in SNL history.

Meyers first took over the anchor chair alongside Amy Poehler in 2006, bringing a fresh energy and perspective to the segment. He excelled at delivering biting political satire and pop culture commentary with a trademark deadpan delivery that had audiences roaring with laughter.

But it wasn’t just his jokes that made Meyers’s “Weekend Update” reign so memorable; it was his willingness to push boundaries and embrace absurdity. He introduced recurring characters like the perpetually outraged “Garth” (played by Fred Armisen) and engaged in playful banter with his co-anchor, Poehler.

The highlight of Meyers’s “Weekend Update” era undoubtedly came in 2008 during a particularly heated presidential election year. In a segment that went viral and became an instant classic, Meyers delivered a scathing critique of both Barack Obama and John McCain, poking fun at their campaign slogans and political platforms with ruthless precision.

The segment was so funny and insightful that it sparked widespread discussion and even drew praise from political pundits who recognized Meyers’s ability to cut through the noise and expose the absurdity of the political landscape.

But what truly set Meyers apart from his “Weekend Update” predecessors was his willingness to embrace vulnerability. He wasn’t afraid to share personal anecdotes or discuss sensitive topics with a sense of honesty and empathy that resonated deeply with viewers. This unique blend of humor, intelligence, and emotional depth is what made Seth Meyers one of the most beloved comedians of his generation.

Beyond “Weekend Update,” Meyers contributed to countless memorable “SNL” sketches, including:

Sketch Title Year Description
“The Californians” 2011 A recurring sketch featuring a family obsessed with their California lifestyle. Meyers played Stuart, the neurotic brother.
“Political Commentary” Various Meyers’s sharp political observations and humorous takes on current events were always a hit.
“Weekend Update” Musical Guests Various Meyers often brought in musical guests for “Weekend Update,” adding an unexpected twist to the segment.

Meyers’ departure from “Saturday Night Live” in 2014 marked the end of an era, but his legacy continues to inspire a new generation of comedians. He went on to host “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” where he continues to showcase his signature wit and intelligence. His success is a testament to his natural comedic talent and his unwavering dedication to crafting intelligent and thought-provoking humor.

He’s proof that even in the world of late-night comedy, there’s always room for something fresh, insightful, and downright hilarious!