Overview
- Glaser’s stand-up-style monologue ran about seven minutes and included explicit references to Jeffrey Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell and pedophilia, prompting broad online criticism.
- Reviews judged the night uneven, citing highlights such as the Jennifer Hudson “Spirit Tunnel” spoof and a flight-delay sketch, with weaker marks for “Beauty and Mr. Beast” and a sorority bit.
- The cold open cast James Austin Johnson as President Trump reacting to an Oval Office collapse clip before riffing on weekly headlines, a choice that drew divided reactions.
- Musical guest Sombr made a well-received debut, performing “12 to 12” and “Back to Friends” with energetic staging noted positively in recaps.
- The episode arrived during Season 51’s cast turnover, with several veteran exits and multiple new featured players shaping the mix on screen.