Ice Spice’s ascension as the hip-hop it-girl of the year continues as Saturday Night Live announces the lineup for its return next week, October 14. The show’s return has been in doubt since the paired Writers’ Guild of America and Screen Actors’ Guild strikes basically shut down all of Hollywood for the second time in the past four years, but with the studios capitulating to the writers’ demands, production has resumed on at least some shows, including SNL.
In addition to the temporary return of Pete Davidson to the cast as guest host, Ice Spice will make her late-night TV debut as the musical guest. She’ll have plenty of hit songs to choose from for her performance, including “Barbie World,” “Boy’s A Liar, Pt. 2,” “Deli,” “In Ha Mood,” “Princess Diana,” and of course, her breakout hit “Munch.” And although her Dunkin Donuts ad spot with Ben Affleck had her looking a little stiff, who knows? Maybe she’ll also turn out to be a comedic genius should she get added to any skits as part of her planned acting career transition.
One thing is for sure: This performance will almost certainly be safer than her recent set at the Listen Out Music Festival in Sydney, Australia. During a performance of “Princess Diana,” Spice’s backside was nearly singed as she twerked in her signature short skirt a little too close to the pyrotechnics. Talk about your wardrobe malfunctions. Hopefully, she can avoid anymore fashion mishaps when she takes the SNL stage on October 14.
Born on September 7, 1967, in Memphis, Tennessee, Leslie Jones always possessed a vivacity that hinted she was destined for the stage. Who would have imagined that a young girl, radiating energy, would someday set the comedy world alight? She made her way from the southern charm of Memphis to the bustling world of stand-up in Los Angeles. Leslie proved that laughter can indeed be a lucrative business. Navigating through the punchlines, sketches, and screen appearances, by 2023, her wit, paired with an unmistakable comedic timing, has manifested a net worth of $10 million, as claimed by CAknowledge.
The Laughter Chronicles: Rise To Stardom
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MAY 16: Host Leslie Jones speaks onstage. During the 2021 MTV Movie & TV Awards at the Hollywood Palladium on May 16, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/2021 MTV Movie and TV Awards/Getty Images for MTV/ViacomCBS)
Leslie’s journey in the comedy world is akin to a perfectly crafted joke – challenging beginnings, a buildup, and an impactful punchline. Initially grappling with the cutthroat dynamics of the stand-up world, her big break materialized when Saturday Night Live (SNL) came calling. The stages of SNL showcased Leslie’s genius, making her a household name. Her sketches were often characterized by their unabashed humor and poignant commentary. They became the stuff of legends, earning her an Emmy nomination.
Life Behind The Jokes: Personal Anecdotes
NEW YORK, NY – MAY 17: (L-R) Pete Davidson Writer and Actor on Saturday Night Live, Guest, Leslie Jones Actor. On Saturday Night Live, Lorne Michaels Creator and Producer Saturday Night Live and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. And Saturday Night Live Actor Michael Che attend the Perfect Game 20th Anniversary Celebration. At Sony Hall on May 17, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Mychal Watts/Getty Images)
Comedy, for Leslie, was more than just a profession; it was a lens to view the world. Drawing from her own experiences, she often intertwined personal narratives with comedic commentary. Beyond the screens, Leslie is known for her candidness, often expressing her views on contemporary issues with gusto. Her larger-than-life persona doesn’t overshadow her vulnerabilities, and that’s perhaps why audiences connect with her so deeply.
Beyond Comedy: Diversifying The Portfolio
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – MAY 26: Leslie Jones performs her stand-up comedy routine on a stop of the Leslie Jones: Live Tour at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas on May 26, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
Leslie Jones is not just a one-trick pony. While comedy remains her first love, her ventures in the entertainment industry are varied. Her stellar performances in films such as Ghostbusters and hosting stints in shows like Supermarket Sweep showcase her range and versatility. Recognizing the potential of the digital age, she’s also been active on platforms like Twitter, often live-tweeting events and sharing her witty take on global happenings.
An Ovation for Leslie’s Theatrical Symphony
It’s not every day that someone can transcend the ordinary to achieve comedic greatness. Leslie Jones has not only managed to tickle funny bones but has also carved a niche for herself in a domain where many aspire, but few truly shine. From the comedy clubs of L.A. to the glitzy stages of SNL and Hollywood, Leslie’s narrative is a melodic symphony of humor, resilience, and sheer brilliance.
Who can resist the comedic stylings of Kenan Thompson? With a sparkle in his eye and a talent for transforming even the most mundane situations into pure comedy gold, Thompson has earned his place as a true giant in the world of entertainment. His penchant for the humorous has not only brightened screens but has also translated into financial success. Kenan Thompson’s net worth, as of 2023, stands at an impressive $20 million, according to CAknowledge.
Upbringing & Career Highlights
SANTA MONICA – OCTOBER 19: Whoopi Goldberg, Kel Mitchell, And Kenan Thompson Attend The 1997 Nickelodeon Big Help-A-Thon at The Santa Monica Pier on October 19, 1997 in Santa Monica, CA. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz Getty Images)
Born in Atlanta, Kenan Thompson’s early days were filled with an infectious love for humor. Family gatherings often revolved around young Kenan’s theatrical performances, which set the stage for his future in comedy. Talent like his could not be confined to family living rooms for long, and soon Thompson was on a path that would lead him to Hollywood’s comedy halls of fame.
Thompson’s entrée into the world of entertainment was no less than extraordinary. Beginning with Nickelodeon’s All That, he quickly became a favorite among children and adults alike. His characters, whether he was portraying the unforgettable Superdude or the stern Principal Pimpell, were instant classics.
But Kenan’s journey didn’t stop at children’s programming. His groundbreaking 18-season run on Saturday Night Live cemented his position as an icon in sketch comedy. With impeccable impressions and memorable skits like “What’s Up With That?” Thompson’s comedic genius kept audiences doubled over with laughter. Films like Good Burger and Fat Albert only added to his repertoire, making him a versatile and in-demand talent.
Accomplishments: An Artist With A Heart
NORCROSS, GEORGIA – FEBRUARY 21: Kenan Thompson and T.I. attend Kenan Thompson’s Ultimate Comedy Experience at Atlanta Comedy Club on February 21, 2022 in Norcross, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images)
Thompson’s influence reaches beyond the entertainment industry. His philanthropic activities, especially those supporting children’s education and health initiatives, reflect his deep compassion for the less fortunate. The awards on his shelf, including an Emmy for Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics, reflect an artist who never fails to amaze, both on and off the screen.
Personal Life: Behind The Laughter
LOS ANGELES, CA – SEPTEMBER 09: Actor Kenan Thompson (R) and his Wife Christina Evangeline (L) attend the 2018 Creative Arts Emmy Awards – Day 2 at the Microsoft Theater on September 9, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Paul Archuleta/FilmMagic)
Kenan Thompson, as engaging as he is on stage, maintains an equally rich personal life. He married Christina Evangeline in 2011 and is a loving father to two beautiful daughters. In 2022, Thompson filed for divorce. Away from the hustle and bustle of show business, Thompson’s home life is filled with simple pleasures. He’s a devoted father who values family time above all else. Often seen at his daughters’ school events and family gatherings, Thompson’s life outside the limelight is grounded and content.
Business Ventures & Philanthropy
Will Ferrell and Kenan Thompson during Nickelodeon’s 20th Annual Kids’ Choice Awards – Audience and Backstage at Pauley Pavilion – UCLA in Westwood, California, United States. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic, Inc)
Thompson has not only excelled on the stage but has proven his acumen in the world of business as well. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to invest in various creative ventures, including a production company focusing on diverse comedy content. Moreover, his collaboration with various brands and his involvement in comedy writing workshops have shown his versatility in innovatively using his comedic talents. His discerning investments reflect a mind attuned to more than just delivering laughs.
Further, Thompson’s compassion isn’t confined to his family and friends. He participates actively in various charitable endeavors, contributing his time and resources to causes close to his heart. Thompson often lends his name and fame to fundraisers and awareness campaigns by supporting organizations that focus on children’s education and health. Whether hosting charity events or personally visiting children’s hospitals, Thompson’s philanthropy is genuine and heartfelt.
Conclusion: A Legacy Of Laughter & Love
Kenan Thompson’s story isn’t just a tale of a comedian who made it big; it reflects a man who utilized his talent for the greater good. From his early days in Atlanta to his iconic role on Saturday Night Live, Thompson’s journey is a blend of dedication, creativity, and compassion. His personal life speaks of love and devotion, his business ventures show innovation, and his philanthropy embodies his true character. With a net worth of $20 million, Thompson’s life paints a vibrant picture of success on the stage and in the lives he touches. His legacy is sure to endure, inspiring many and proving that a sense of humor and a big heart can indeed change the world.
The Writers Guild of America’s ongoing strike against labor conditions could be changing Americans’ viewing habits for the foreseeable future, but that isn’t the only thing it’s affecting. Many peripheral industries will feel the effects in the coming weeks and (potentially) months as the WGA fights for fair wages and job protections from networks and studios amid a changing media landscape and record profits.
For instance, musical guests Foo Fighters, Labrinth, and Lil Uzi Vert have had their upcoming guest appearances on Saturday Night Live canceled along with immediate show episodes. According to Variety, the show, which normally runs through May before the summer hiatus, won’t produce any new episodes until the strike ends. This week would have seen former cast member Pete Davidson return as host with Lil Uzi Vert as the musical guest — a dynamic duo if ever there was one — while Entertainment Weekly reports Foo Fighters’ first appearance since the death of drummer Taylor Hawkins was canceled along with Jennifer Coolidge’s hosting debut. Labrinth would have appeared in an episode hosted by Kieran Culkin.
Artists that would have appeared on other late-night variety shows will also need to find alternative promotion, as the only show running through the strike is (of course) Fox News’ Gutfield!, a show I just learned exists five minutes ago. Even so, recording artists are still showing solidarity with their fellow writers, with Snoop Dogg comparing screenwriters’ pay to streaming royalties.
The Hollywood writer’s strike will impact all facets of entertainment, Hip-Hop included. The earliest evidence of this is the cancellation of Lil Uzi Vert’s performance on Saturday Night Live.
Lil Uzi was set to be the musical guest on the show hosted by Pete Davidson. The pause of work by the Writers Guild of America is now stopping the show from moving forward. The performance would have been Lil Uzi’s SNL debut.
The WGA (Writers Guild of America) strike is a type of action that takes place when American television and film writers go on strike to demand better contracts, working conditions, and pay. WGA members refuse to work on any writing-related projects for the productions that are impacted by a strike. The previous strike, which occurred in 2007 and 2008, lasted 100 days. The current issues, in addition, to pay and working conditions, include the rise of streaming, limiting the number of episodes in a season, and the impact of AI.
According to Variety, SNL will show repeats “until further notice.”
It’s a wrap for Lil Uzi Vert’s Saturday Night Live debut. That is to say, the performance has been canceled. Unfortunately, due to the ongoing writers’ strike in Hollywood, SNL has been put on an indefinite hold. The show halted production immediately upon the beginning of the strike. Lil Uzi has never appeared on the show before, so it was set to be a big moment for them. Who knows, maybe Leslie would have even made an appearance?
Unfortunately, NBC has announced no new episodes will be produced for the remainder of the season. Typically, the show runs through May before taking a break during the summer. Now, NBC will be airing reruns in the regular time slot for the time being. Pete Davidson’s appearance as host has also been canceled due to the strike. It was set to be his first return to the SNL stage since departing his role as a regular cast member. While the strike is necessary for the sake of fair pay, it is definitely having some negative effects on the careers of performers.
Lil Uzi’s Lawsuit Is Finally Settled
Lil Uzi Vert’s debut as musical guest on SNL has been cancelled, due to the WGA strike. pic.twitter.com/DwOIq99lq4
Lil Uzi Vert’s “Strawberry Peels” lawsuit has finally come to a close. Legal papers obtained by HipHopDX indicated that Sun City Publishing reached a settlement agreement with Atlantic Recording Corporation. Sun City is reportedly the owner of the rights to Blackout’s 1995 song “Dim Da Lights.” They alleged that it was sampled without consent in “Strawberry Peels.” The terms of the agreement were not disclosed, but the parties agreed to resolve the matter. They reportedly anticipate filing a Stipulation to dismiss the lawsuit within thirty days.
Previously, Sun City Publishing had been asking to be awarded damages in excess of $1 million for the use of the unauthorized sample. The amount was decided upon because of the success of “Strawberry Peels.” The Wheezy-produced track features Gunna and Young Thug and appeared on Uzi’s 2020 album Eternal Atake. It has over 39 million streams on Spotify alone. At least there’s some good news for Uzi this week. What do you think of the cancelation? Were you looking forward to seeing the rapper hit the SNL stage? Sound off below!
The Writer’s Guild of America, the primary union for writers working at major studios across America, authorized strike action on May 2. The first WGA writer’s strike since 2008, writers working at numerous studios walked out after studio management failed to meet their demands for a better contract before the present contract expired. Studios affected range from Netflix to Warner Bros. to Disney to the East Coast TV behemoths like NBC.
The WGA writers had asked for studio concessions on a variety of issues. These include the base pay of writers, the way that residual checks work (especially in regard to streaming services), and the regulation of AI use in media production. The studio executives were unwilling to meet the union’s demands on almost every issue, necessitating a work stoppage and strike.
“SNL” Among The Shows Affected By WGA Strike
SNL has shut down and Pete Davidson’s hosting episode is officially off amid the writers strike. pic.twitter.com/xAJMYnLERQ
The response to the WGA strike has differed from studio to studio, and network to network. For example, HBO will not cease production of House Of The Dragon Season 2, as all scripts have been completed. Meanwhile, many late-night talk shows will suspend their current runs in the wake of the strike action. Hosts such as Jon Oliver and Seth Myers have actively voiced their support for the strike. It’s almost like writers deserve basic and fair compensation for making millions of dollars for entertainment juggernauts.
Another causality of the strike is Saturday Night Live. After a brief break last weekend, SNL was supposed to return to air on May 6. This would have been the highly-anticipated hosting debut of former castmate Pete Davidson. Not only were fans looking forward to Davidson’s return, but the episode had also gotten press coverage about its content, or lack of, regarding Kim Kardashian. However, with strike action authorized and the show’s writers on the picket line, SNL has been suspended indefinitely. The timeslot will be filled by SNL re-runs instead. Davidson famously left social media several years ago, so it is unclear what his stance on the strikes is. Furthermore, it is unknown if Davidson will get a chance to host when the strike eventually resolves.
Saturday Night Live was the breakout for Pete Davidson. Joining the long-running sketch comedy show in 2014, Davidson spent eight seasons on the show. During that time, he also became known for other things. As much as we would like to credit those other things as other acting performances, like Set It Up and King Of Staten Island, sadly we cannot. Davidson became known for his varied dating life and his reportedly giant dick.
Perhaps his most famous relationship was his nine-month relationship with Kim Kardashian. Reportedly blossoming from an on-screen kiss during Kim’s 2021 SNL host slot, the relationship dominated headlines. The pair parted ways in 2022, but apparently remain on good terms. That will play a major factor as Davidson prepares to host SNL on May 6.
Pete Davidson will be the next guest host of SNL when the show returns from a one-week hiatus on May 6. It is Davidson’s first time hosting since he left the show in 2022. He is the fourth SNL alum to host during the current season, following Molly Shannon, Steve Martin, and Martin Short. The current season has also featured Ana de Armas, Megan Thee Stallion, Aubrey Plaza, and Jenna Ortega as hosts. The most watched episode of the season was the one hosted by Martin and Short, which also featured musical guest Brandi Carlile. It is the only episode of the season to break five million viewers. The show hit that mark three times in the prior season. Davidson’s appearance is expected to be a major ratings bump for the show.
However, Davidson will not be joking about his most famous ex during skits or his monologue. According to a source who spoke to Page Six, both parties had agreed to “move on” after the break-up, which is why Kardashian isn’t mentioned in Davidson’s stand-up routines. Furthermore, the source told the gossip outlet that Davidson wants to be a “good sport” and “perfect gentleman” during his hosting, which means not joking about his ex. The musical guest for Davdison’s episode will be Lil Uzi Vert. However, whether Davidson’s pledge remains the case will have to be seen on May 6.
Of course, this is all just speculation and Internet gossip, but it’s still quite an interesting question to consider. Moreover, recent reports suggested that Pete Davidson would return to SNL this year to host, about a year after having left as cast member. After a few days of speculation, the long-running sketch comedy show confirmed the news. Also, they billed Lil Uzi Vert as its musical guest for the evening. However, that news also caused a lot of people to realize that there’s one celebrity that links these two figures together. It’s none other than Kanye West, and now some fans probably wonder how Ye feels about all this.
For those unaware, Kanye and Uzi go way back. Most recently, they actually got matching tattoos with Steve Lacy. Said picture went viral for the crazy link-up between these three creatives. Also, the two were featured guests on Travis Scott’s “Watch,” a single from 2018 that preceded much of the hype for the then-unreleased ASTROWORLD. As such, many wonder if the Chicago MC will have a tense reaction to the “Just Wanna Rock” star being billed alongside his ex-wife Kim Kardashian’s ex-boyfriend.
Will Kanye West Be Mad At Lil Uzi Vert Linking With Pete Davidson?
Of course, the main reason why a lot of people wonder this is because of Kanye West falling out with Kid Cudi. That was because of the latter’s friendship with Pete Davidson. As such, many wonder if Lil Uzi Vert will share the same fate. Previously, Cudi said that it would take a “miracle” to reconcile with Ye. Considering all the great music they made together, such a conclusion is quite tragic.
“With all due respect, I’m not Drake, who’s about to take a picture with him next week and be friends again. And their beef is squashed,” Kid Cudi told Esquire in an interview. “That’s not me. What I say, I mean. I will be done with you. It’s gonna take a motherf***ing miracle for me and that man to be friends again. I don’t see it happening. He gon’ have to become a monk. The twisted thing is that I love him, but I love you so much that I can kick you the f**k out of my life and be done with your a**. ’Cause you are not good for me. I love myself more. I didn’t love myself all them years you knew me.” Regardless of your take, return to HNHH for more on Pete Davidson, Lil Uzi Vert, and Kanye West.
Pete Davidson‘s eight-season tenure on Saturday Night Live defined the young comedian’s earlier career. Starting in 2014, Davidson was best known for playing “dumb” characters, such as Chad the Pool Boy, as well as his infamous habit of breaking character. He loved and loathed in equal measure, with people either praising his goofy, frat-like energy or bemoaning that he simply wasn’t funny.
While Davidson appeared in some roles during his time on SNL, such as Set It Up and The King of Staten Island, he is ramping up his commitments after departing the show last year. He will voice a character in the upcoming Transformers: Rise Of The Beasts as well as star in Dumb Money, the biopic about the GameStop short squeeze incident. He will also star in Bupkis, a Peacock Original Series about a fictionalized version of his life.
First reported by Page Six, Davidson will reportedly host SNL on May 6. The gig will come two days after the premiere of Bupkis on Peacock. While unconfirmed by SNL, the timing makes sense. The show has a history of booking hosts from the entertainment in line with major projects for that individual. However, it will also promise to be a strong episode. Some of the best hosting performances in the show’s run have come from former cast members such as Steve Martin. Martin, alongside Martin Short, most recently hosted in December 2022. The episode set a season-high mark of 5.07 million viewers.
Davidson’s appearance will be one of the final hosts for the show’s 48th season. Season 48 began in October 2022 and has featured hosts such as Miles Teller, Megan Thee Stallion, Dave Chappelle, Aubrey Plaza, Pedro Pascal, Travis Kelce, and Jenny Ortega. The most recently confirmed host, who will appear on the April 15 episode, is Ana de Armas. As SNL has not confirmed Davidson as host, it is unknown who is accompanying musical guest will be. However, one potential option could be Machine Gun Kelly. MGK has been heavily involved with the production of Bupkis and is also set to star in the show. However, fans will have to wait until SNL reveals the May 6 host closer to the time.
