Comedic Comeback
Mike Myers Makes a Spectacular Return to SNL with a Hilarious Kanye West Sketch!
Last updated:

Edited By
Mackenzie Ferguson
AI Tools Researcher & Implementation Consultant
In a memorable season finale of *Saturday Night Live*, Mike Myers delighted audiences by returning to the iconic stage, joining guest host Scarlett Johansson. In a standout moment, Myers participated in an elevator sketch with Kenan Thompson portraying Kanye West. The sketch humorously tackled several of West's controversies, including his past statements and bizarre fashion choices.
Introduction: Mike Myers' Return to SNL
Mike Myers' unexpected return to *Saturday Night Live* for the season finale brought a mix of nostalgia and surprise to fans of the long-running sketch comedy show. Hosted by Scarlett Johansson, the episode featured Myers in a standout performance during an elevator sketch that poked fun at the myriad controversies surrounding Kanye West. Having not graced the SNL stage regularly for years, Myers' cameo was eagerly anticipated and did not disappoint, showcasing his renowned comedic timing and ability to engage audiences with humor that both reflects and critiques current events.
The sketch, which included Kenan Thompson portraying Kanye West, cleverly satirized many of West's public statements and representations that have sparked debate over the years. The inclusion of a scenario reminiscent of the famous 2005 Hurricane Katrina telethon, where Myers and West previously shared an awkward moment, added a deeper layer of humor and context to the performance. Myers, known for his ability to balance satire and silliness, engaged deftly with topical content, making the sketch not only an entertainment piece but a commentary on fame and infamy. More on this can be found in the Deadline's recap [here](https://deadline.com/2025/05/snl-mike-myers-kanye-west-sketch-scarlett-johansson-1236402709/).
Learn to use AI like a Pro
Get the latest AI workflows to boost your productivity and business performance, delivered weekly by expert consultants. Enjoy step-by-step guides, weekly Q&A sessions, and full access to our AI workflow archive.














Critics have noted that Myers' performance was a reminder of his unique talent in the genre of sketch comedy, and his return was warmly welcomed by both colleagues and audiences alike. As spotlighted in several reviews, including one from The New York Post, the comedy served as a tongue-in-cheek nod to Myers' previous encounter with West, reinterpreting it through the lens of SNL's trademark humor. This episode not only reintroduced Myers to a new generation of SNL viewers but also engaged long-time fans who appreciated the nostalgic throwback. The full details of the sketch and its context can be explored further in articles like this one [here](https://deadline.com/2025/05/snl-mike-myers-kanye-west-sketch-scarlett-johansson-1236402709/).
Scarlett Johansson's Historic Hosting Milestone
Scarlett Johansson achieved a remarkable feat in television history by hosting *Saturday Night Live* for the seventh time, making her the first woman to reach this milestone. Her latest hosting stint, which concluded the season finale, showcased her comedic prowess and ability to captivate audiences with versatile performances. Johansson's longstanding relationship with the show, having been both a revered host and an audience favorite, underscores her deep-rooted connection with the *SNL* creative team and its loyal viewers. This historic achievement has solidified her status as a key figure in the illustrious legacy of *SNL* hosts.
Her dynamic presence on stage has been a testament to her adaptability and talent, delighting fans with each appearance. With each hosting gig, Johansson continues to break boundaries and push the limits of comedy, often participating in sketches that reflect timely cultural topics and current events. Her milestone hosting role not only highlights her significance in the entertainment industry but also inspires a new generation of women in comedy and television. By consistently delivering standout performances, Johansson remains an influential figure, revered for her ability to engage and entertain audiences worldwide.
The latest season finale hosted by Scarlett Johansson featured a memorable elevator sketch, which included veteran comedian Mike Myers and featured Kenan Thompson portraying Kanye West. The sketch satirized Kanye West's controversies, providing both humor and a reflection on recent pop culture events. Johansson's involvement in such high-profile sketches demonstrates her versatility and appeal as a comedic actor, reinforcing her status as a formidable comedic talent. This episode not only celebrated Johansson's historic hosting achievement but also highlighted the collaborative spirit and creative dynamism of the *Saturday Night Live* team.
Learn to use AI like a Pro
Get the latest AI workflows to boost your productivity and business performance, delivered weekly by expert consultants. Enjoy step-by-step guides, weekly Q&A sessions, and full access to our AI workflow archive.














The Kanye West Elevator Sketch: A Satirical Take
The episode of *Saturday Night Live* featuring the Kanye West Elevator Sketch was a memorable one, standing out as a brilliant blend of satire and comedic precision. Mike Myers, making his celebrated return to the show, proved once again why he is a beloved comedic figure. Appearing alongside Scarlett Johansson and Kenan Thompson, who portrayed Kanye West, Myers helped deliver a sketch that was both entertaining and thought-provoking. The sketch skillfully tackled various controversies surrounding Kanye West with humor and insight. Engaging its audience with laughs and reflection, the sketch provided a satirical examination of the controversies that have surrounded West, including his infamous comments on George W. Bush and other high-profile incidents. To see more details about the performance and its reception, check out the full article [here](https://deadline.com/2025/05/snl-mike-myers-kanye-west-sketch-scarlett-johansson-1236402709/).
Kenan Thompson's portrayal of Kanye West was significant, not just for its comedic timing but for the nuanced way it captured the complexities and absurdities of West's persona. In the sketch, Thompson embodied the rapper's eccentricities with humor, bouncing off Myers and Johansson’s characters to create a dynamic interplay that mirrored West's unpredictable public persona. This role was an extension of Thompson's already impressive repertoire of characters on *SNL*, further cementing his status as a king of impersonation in contemporary comedy. You can watch the full sketch and the performances [here](https://deadline.com/2025/05/snl-mike-myers-kanye-west-sketch-scarlett-johansson-1236402709/).
Reactions to the sketch have varied widely. While some viewers saw it as an effective satire, highlighting the absurdity of celebrity culture, others perceived it as an oversimplification of complex social issues. The portrayal of West's controversies, including rumors and innuendo about a connection with the Ku Klux Klan, was particularly pointed, playing on the thin line between public perception and rumor. The laughter and discussion it sparked are testament to SNL’s ongoing impact on pop culture and its ability to generate dialogue on sensitive topics, even when wrapped in humor. For those interested in seeing how SNL manages to blend satire and current events, the full story is detailed [here](https://deadline.com/2025/05/snl-mike-myers-kanye-west-sketch-scarlett-johansson-1236402709/).
The sketch's legacy may not have a deep or lasting impact, but it underscores the role of comedy in processing public figures' contentious actions through the lens of satire. *Saturday Night Live*, with sketches like these, continues to serve its purpose as a cultural barometer, reflecting and amplifying society’s curiosities and critiques. Through Myers' return and Thompson’s stellar portrayal, the sketch achieved its primary goal: to entertain while providing a reflective commentary on contemporary issues. For more insights into how this sketch came together and how it was received, you can explore further [here](https://deadline.com/2025/05/snl-mike-myers-kanye-west-sketch-scarlett-johansson-1236402709/).
Public and Critical Reactions to the Sketch
The sketch featuring Mike Myers and Kenan Thompson as Kanye West received wide-ranging public reactions. Many viewers applauded the sketch for its biting satire and clever writing, appreciating the way it poked fun at West’s well-known controversies. These included his infamous comment about George W. Bush, his fashion choices that were deemed controversial, and his inflammatory public statements. For some, the sketch was a brilliant display of Myers' comedic prowess alongside Thompson's spot-on impersonation, contributing to what some have labeled a classic 'SNL' moment [1](https://deadline.com/2025/05/snl-mike-myers-kanye-west-sketch-scarlett-johansson-1236402709/).
Critics, however, had diverse opinions on the parody. While some praised the sketch for its sharp humor and nostalgic tie-back to Myers and West's awkward historical encounter, others found the comedy to be lacking in creativity and depth. The predictability of the jokes was a common critique, as some believed the sketch relied too heavily on established punchlines rather than offering fresh perspectives. Critics also voiced concerns about the sketch’s social commentary being too heavy-handed, questioning whether it detracted from the overall comedic experience [1](https://www.stereogum.com/2308480/watch-mike-myers-reunite-with-kanye-west-on-snl-season-50-finale/news/).
Learn to use AI like a Pro
Get the latest AI workflows to boost your productivity and business performance, delivered weekly by expert consultants. Enjoy step-by-step guides, weekly Q&A sessions, and full access to our AI workflow archive.














Public response online was mixed, with some feeling that the sketch crossed lines of sensitivity, particularly in references to the KKK outfit, which spurred discussions about taste and appropriateness in satire. While some lauded the humor and courage to address controversial topics, others felt that certain elements were in poor taste, sparking brief debates across social media platforms [3](https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/kanye-west-mike-myers-snl-sketch-kkk-1236402256/). Despite these debates, many fans expressed delight in seeing Myers back on stage and enjoyed the walk down memory lane that the sketch provided [7](https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/kanye-west-mike-myers-snl-elevator-sketch-1235974912/).
The sketch also sparked conversation among television critics, some of whom saw it as a clever play on controversial contemporary issues. They appreciated how the sketch deftly intertwined humor with subtle critiques of celebrity culture and public persona, reflecting 'SNL's' enduring tradition of pairing comedy with social commentary. However, their voices joined the chorus of those suggesting that 'SNL' may have missed an opportunity to explore deeper layers of satire, thereby leaving more to be desired [4](https://ew.com/kenan-thompson-takes-on-kanye-west-snl-sketch-mike-myers-11737148). This sketch, despite its mix of reviews, reaffirmed 'SNL’s' place in navigating the cultural zeitgeist through its humor.
Expert Opinions on Mike Myers' Performance
Mike Myers' return to "Saturday Night Live" for the season finale sparked a considerable amount of debate among critics and fans alike. Known for his mastery in comedic timing and character-driven performances, Myers was praised for reinvigorating the show with his signature style. Critics highlighted how his portrayal injected fresh energy into the sketch, synergizing well with Kenan Thompson's portrayal of Kanye West. The duo succeeded in delivering a performance that was both nostalgic and timely, drawing parallels to past real-life encounters between Myers and West at high-profile public events. The sketch's sharp writing made it resonate with audiences, especially in light of today's celebrity culture dominated by controversies and bold opinions. While some saw Myers' performance as a strong comeback, emphasizing his ability to navigate complex comedic narratives, others noted it as a reaffirmation of his status as one of SNL's most influential alumni .
While Myers' performance was widely acclaimed for its humor and relevance, not all expert opinions were unqualified endorsements. Some critics pointed out that the jokes were predictable and the humor lacked the bite and edge needed to truly satirize the controversies surrounding Kanye West. This viewpoint emphasizes an ongoing discussion about the fine balance in comedy between provocation and predictability. Nevertheless, Myers' delivery and comic timing were recognized as exemplary, with many experts agreeing that his return to SNL was a successful one, even if the material didn’t quite match all expectations. In part, this polarizing reception underscores the challenging nature of live sketch comedy and the varied tastes of its audience .
Economic, Social, and Political Implications
The return of Mike Myers to *Saturday Night Live* in a sketch satirizing Kanye West stirred momentary interest in the comedic landscape, yet its broader implications do not stretch far beyond entertainment. Economically, any boost to *SNL*'s ratings and subsequent online conversations about the episode are expected to be fleeting. While a temporary surge in viewership could occur, it is unlikely to result in a significant financial windfall for the show or its network. The actors involved, including Scarlett Johansson and Kenan Thompson, may enjoy a brief spotlight moment, but the lack of substantial economic impact underscores the entertainment-centric value of such sketches. Full details of this episode can be read on Deadline's article here.
Socially, the sketch may have sparked some short-term social media engagement through its portrayal of Kanye West's controversies. The comedic depiction of controversial statements made by West, whether involving his 2005 comments about George W. Bush or the fictional association with the KKK, invited chuckles and debate alike. However, such satirical content rarely contributes to lasting shifts in public opinion. The comedic exaggeration typical of *SNL* ensures that while these topics are momentarily spotlighted, they fail to sustain any meaningful discourse or change social attitudes long-term. This can be corroborated through responses and satirical analysis detailed in coverage by *The Daily Beast* here.
Learn to use AI like a Pro
Get the latest AI workflows to boost your productivity and business performance, delivered weekly by expert consultants. Enjoy step-by-step guides, weekly Q&A sessions, and full access to our AI workflow archive.














Politically, the sketch navigated between humor and West's historically politically-charged remarks, but its potential influence is minimal. While making reference to West's public controversies might have tapped into politically sensitive topics, the use of satire likely positioned the sketch more as a piece of entertainment than a vehicle for political change. Historically, *SNL* sketches have rarely altered political landscapes, often serving to entertain and provoke thought rather than sway public policy or opinion significantly. Such is the case with the current sketch as discussed in *The Daily Beast* here.
In conclusion, Mike Myers’ participation in the *SNL* sketch added a layer of entertainment value, revisiting past controversies involving Kanye West with witticism and humor. Despite garnering some media and viewer attention, the sketch’s implications across economic, social, and political dimensions remain limited. It reflects more on *SNL*’s ability to engage with current and past events through satire rather than serve as a driver of actual societal change. The long-lasting impact is negligible, ensuring that this episode remains within the confines of momentary amusement, detailed further in the *Deadline* article here.
Conclusion: The Entertainment Impact of the SNL Finale
The season finale of *Saturday Night Live* featuring Mike Myers was an episode that left a significant mark on the entertainment landscape, particularly through its satirical approach towards Kanye West's controversies. Hosted by Scarlett Johansson, the finale delivered a blend of humor and nostalgia, notably within the elevator sketch where Myers reunited with Kenan Thompson, who portrayed Kanye West. This particular sketch brought to the forefront several controversial moments from West's past, including his infamous 2005 comments about George W. Bush and his more recent antisemitic remarks. The finale not only highlighted the comedic prowess of the cast but also reinforced SNL's long-standing reputation for tackling contemporary issues through satire .
This season finale was also significant for marking Scarlett Johansson's seventh hosting appearance, a milestone that solidifies her as a staple in the show's history. Her comedic chemistry with Myers and Thompson brought a dynamic energy to the sketches, particularly the one reflecting on Kanye West's long list of public and controversial antics. Moreover, the finale showcased musical performances by Bad Bunny, adding another layer of entertainment that appealed to a broad audience .
Public and critical reception of the SNL finale was mixed. While many praised the sharpness of the writing and the fearless approach to sensitive topics, some critics felt that the comedic attempts were predictable and the social commentary too heavy-handed. Despite this, the sketch succeeded in sparking conversations and generating buzz, a testament to its timely relevance and SNL's ability to mirror societal discourse through humor .
Mike Myers' performance, especially in moments that referenced his past encounters with Kanye West, was lauded for its excellent timing and comedic expression. These performances served not only as a callback to previous SNL moments but also provided a platform for satire that was both thoughtful and provocative. Such sketches showcase SNL's unique position in blending entertainment with the reflection of real-world incidents, driving the audience to reflect on current events through a comedic lens .
Learn to use AI like a Pro
Get the latest AI workflows to boost your productivity and business performance, delivered weekly by expert consultants. Enjoy step-by-step guides, weekly Q&A sessions, and full access to our AI workflow archive.














Overall, the impact of the SNL season finale on the entertainment industry lies in its ability to meld comedy with critical commentary, despite the transient nature of its discussions. While these sketches often do not result in long-term shifts in public opinion, they highlight the show's continuous influence in shaping conversations around celebrity culture and societal norms. The finale, thus, remains a salient example of how comedy can intersect with current events, providing a form of light-hearted yet poignant critique .