On December 21, 2024, comedy legend Martin Short returned to the Saturday Night Live stage, this time for a monumental fifth hosting appearance, earning him a coveted spot in the show’s prestigious Five-Timers Club. The holiday-themed episode was a festive celebration of Short’s comedic contributions and marked a special moment in the history of the beloved late-night show.
Martin Short’s Career With SNL
Short was a cast member from 1984 to 1985. Most recently, he was a co-host in December 2022, during Season 48 alongside Only Murders in the Building costar Steve Martin.
Opening Sketch
The star-studded opening sketch set the tone for the evening. As CNN reported, Short was welcomed into the Five-Timers Club by an impressive group of past SNL hosts, including Tom Hanks, Tina Fey, Alec Baldwin, Scarlett Johansson, Kristen Wiig, and Melissa McCarthy. Each of them joined Short on stage to offer their congratulations and share in the celebration of his milestone. The cold open was a comedic powerhouse, delivering an unforgettable moment for fans of the show.
Short’s monologue also kept the laughs rolling. The iconic comedian roasted fellow celebrities, including his longtime collaborator Steve Martin, SNL‘s Colin Jost, and even the legendary Al Pacino. Short’s quick wit and masterful comedic timing were on full display, earning applause from the live audience and viewers at home. His humor was sharp, playful, and filled with affection for the people he poked fun at, making for a memorable opening to the night.
Standout Sketch
One standout sketch featured Short alongside Mikey Day in a hilarious skit about a mall parking lot feud. The absurd situation was made even funnier by the presence of Melissa McCarthy, whose antics added a surprising twist to the sketch. Bowen Yang’s “Weekend Update” segment brought more absurdity to the show, with his unique comedic take on current events and social issues.
Musical Guest Hozier
Musical guest Hozier also made his mark on the show, performing his hit songs “Too Sweet” and the festive classic “Fairytale of New York”. His soulful renditions contributed to the holiday spirit of the evening, creating a perfect backdrop to the comedy-heavy episode.
The show was a perfect blend of classic SNL humor, nostalgia, and fresh moments, as Short’s infectious energy and irreverent humor delighted both longtime fans and new viewers. In addition to his memorable monologue and sketches, Short’s presence on the show reminded viewers of the lasting impact of comedy legends in shaping the fabric of modern entertainment.
As Short joins the ranks of SNL’s elite Five-Timers Club, this special Christmas episode serves as a tribute to his incredible career, which has spanned television, film, and stage performances. Fans can only hope this won’t be the last time they see him hosting one of television’s most iconic comedy shows.
Short has been nominated for best actor for the 2025 Golden Globes for Only Murders in the Building.
