Navarrette Targets Gillis in SNL Debut, Highlights 'Inventor' Sketch

Key points

• Navarrette mocked Gillis’s October monologue by joking about wearing a 'whore outfit' to the gym for her Marvel role.
• The episode featured Gracie Abrams as the musical guest, marking her second performance on the show.
• Navarrette starred in 'The Inventor’s Wife,' a sketch involving a robot named PD 44 that destroys a date.
• The show included a cold open with Tom Hanks as David S. Pumpkins and a sketch addressing the Milwaukee Brewers’ World Series victory.
• Navarrette’s performance was praised as the best hosting debut of the season, despite some uneven sketches.

Background

Navarrette’s SNL debut follows her breakout role in the horror film Obsession and coincides with the US midterm elections. The episode addressed the lingering fallout from Shane Gillis’s October monologue, which sparked backlash from celebrities like Dan Levy. Previous coverage highlighted the episode’s focus on Gillis’s controversy and Navarrette’s transition from horror stardom to comedy hosting.

How outlets are covering it

Page Six emphasized Navarrette’s direct jab at Gillis and her monologue’s reference to her Marvel role. The Guardian noted the episode’s improved quality, praising Navarrette’s performance and the 'Inventor’s Wife' sketch, while criticizing some weaker segments. Deadline focused on Navarrette’s comedy muscle and the episode’s sketches, including the Delta commercial and 'The Uninterested Woman' game show. Variety highlighted 'The Inventor’s Wife' as a standout digital short, praising Navarrette’s timing and commitment to the bit. All sources agreed on the episode’s overall improvement but differed on the strength of individual sketches.

Why it matters

Navarrette’s SNL debut marks a significant moment for the actress as she transitions from horror stardom to comedy hosting. The episode’s address of Gillis’s controversy highlights ongoing debates about gender and comedy in mainstream media. The show’s improved quality suggests a potential momentum for the season, though future episodes may face challenges.

What to watch

The next SNL episode is expected to feature a streamer as the host, which may test the show’s momentum. Navarrette’s upcoming Marvel role as Rogue in X-Men will likely draw further attention to her career. The episode’s reception may influence future casting and sketch choices for the show.