Scarlett Johansson’s Live Reactions Steal the Show in SNL’s Year-End Prank
The final Saturday Night Live episode of the year is known for its unforgettable “Weekend Update” segment, where co-anchors Colin Jost and Michael Che exchange jokes the other hasn’t seen beforehand. Over the years, Che has often delighted in making Jost read cringe-worthy jokes about race, leaving the audience—and Jost himself—in stitches. However, this year, Che took things up a notch by targeting Jost’s wife, actress Scarlett Johansson, with the added twist of showing her live reactions.
The setup was both simple and brilliant. With a camera trained on Johansson as she watched her husband’s humiliating ordeal unfold, the audience was treated to genuine moments of shock, laughter, and second-hand embarrassment.
The Roast Begins: Jokes About Reparations and Roast Beef
The segment started with Jost attempting to sidestep controversy by joking, “I’m going to read all the jokes in ‘Black voice’ so I don’t get in trouble.” Cue Che’s first punchline, a wild joke about reparations that had Jost struggling to contain his laughter. The punchlines only got sharper, with Che steering the comedy toward Jost’s personal life.
Things reached a new comedic high when Jost was forced to read, “Scarlett just celebrated her 40th birthday, which means I’m about to get up out of there!” followed by a Photoshopped image of Jost and Johansson holding a Black baby. Johansson’s expression in the hallway—a mix of nervous laughter and disbelief—was priceless.
An R-Rated Finale That Left Everyone Speechless
Just when it seemed like the jokes couldn’t get more outrageous, Che had one final zinger ready. Jost, barely able to keep a straight face, read aloud: “Costco has removed their roast beef sandwich from its menu, but I ain’t tripping. I be eating roast beef every night since my wife had the kid!” Johansson’s live reaction to this R-rated joke was one for the books—visibly startled yet laughing along with the audience.
The Perfect End to a Hilarious Episode
The segment encapsulated the unfiltered hilarity that makes Saturday Night Live a cultural mainstay. With Martin Short hosting and Hozier delivering stellar musical performances, the show ended the year on a comedic high note. Che and Jost’s unfiltered camaraderie, paired with Johansson’s live reactions, made this Weekend Update one of the most memorable in recent history.
What do you think of this year’s SNL finale? Did Che take things too far, or was it comedy gold? Let us know in the comments!