Why Scarlett Johansson Says the Saturday Night Live Season 50 Finale Was So “Special”
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
For Scarlett Johansson, hosting the Season 50 finale of Saturday Night Live wasn’t just another night at Studio 8H—it was a personal and professional milestone that made the historic episode, which aired on May 17, 2025, deeply meaningful.
Johansson, who has a long and beloved history with the show, became the first woman ever to host SNL seven times, breaking the previous record and firmly cementing her place in the show’s legacy. As NBC Insider and Entertainment Weekly reported, this seventh hosting stint elevated her status within the iconic Five-Timers Club, a group of frequent SNL hosts that includes names like Tom Hanks, Steve Martin, and Alec Baldwin. But Johansson now stands alone at the top among female hosts—a historic moment that made the night “so special,” in her words.
| Hosting Episode | Significance |
|---|---|
| 1st to 6th | Built her reputation as a go-to, trusted SNL host |
| 7th (Season 50 Finale) | First woman to reach 7 hostings—record-breaking |
Beyond the numbers, the night was filled with personal touches and memorable moments. During the “Weekend Update” segment, co-anchor Michael Che issued a heartfelt on-air apology to Johansson for a previous “joke swap” incident, a nod to the close-knit and sometimes chaotic nature of the SNL family. The public reconciliation added an emotional undercurrent to her appearance and underscored the deep relationships she’s cultivated on set over the years.
Johansson’s monologue was another highlight, featuring a Season 50-themed rendition of Billy Joel’s “Piano Man.” Surrounded by cast members like Bowen Yang, Ego Nwodim, and longtime head writer Michael Che, she delivered a nostalgic and spirited opening that honored the legacy of the show while celebrating her place in it. The sketch-packed episode also included surprise cameos and high-energy performances, capturing the celebratory tone of the historic season finale.
Adding further to the episode’s weight was the context of Season 50 itself. The milestone season was laced with speculation about departures—particularly surrounding Colin Jost, Johansson’s husband and Weekend Update co-anchor. While no official announcements were made, the episode’s reflective tone and emotional beats added a sense of finality and importance, elevating Johansson’s appearance into something far more profound than just another comedy gig.
In many ways, the Season 50 finale was a full-circle moment for Johansson. From her first hosting appearance as a rising star to now standing as a record-breaking figure in SNL history, her journey with the show reflects her evolution as both a performer and a beloved member of the SNL family.
And for Johansson, it wasn’t just about breaking a record—it was about celebrating the connections, history, and humor that have defined her relationship with Saturday Night Live over two decades. That’s what made it truly special.