
Jack Black Delivers A High Energy Performance On ‘SNL' After 20 Years
It has been 20 years since Black hosted; however, he brought an infectious energy to the show, which may lead some to ask, "Why such a big gap?'
It is good that James Austin Johnson's Donald Trump impression is so good because the show tends to lean on it for its Cold Opens. In this iteration, Trump gives a speech about tariffs. He is joined by Andrew Dismukes as Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Mike Myers as Elon Musk. Johnson also slips in a jab at last week's musical guest, Morgan Wallen, by saying, 'Get me to God's country,' a phrase the country star posted on Instagram after walking out of 'goodnights' on his episode.
Black delivers a singing monologue about being back that is just too much fun. This isn't the first time that he has sung in an SNL monologue, but it feels right for his brand of comedy and his return to the show to bring it back. He enters the crowd and brings on cast members, including Kenan Thompson. Notably, Black's second time hosting in 2003 was also Thompson's first episode on the cast. This is what a monologue during the 50th season should look like.
Sometimes, the game show premise can get a little stale on SNL because it is done so often. However, this one is surprisingly fresh. In it, a blind dating show gets interrupted by one bachelor's outfit choice. It's cute and punchy and knows exactly how to end. Dismukes also really shines as the irked host.
Black just can't get enough Flamin' Hot Cheetos, even on a product that shouldn't be synonymous with spice. Having a CGI Chester Cheetah is fun, and the commercial parody almost always works on SNL. There is nothing wrong with this sketch, but on a night of really inventive and fun sketches, it feels a little one-note.
When a group of college friends gets together for the first time in years, their old habit of trying to one-up each other reemerges. This sketch makes excellent use of sound effects, which really heightens the simple premise. Using random hawk sound effects feels a little more Adult Swim than SNL, but it's funny, and the performers' reactions are great. While the final beat doesn't really work, this sketch feels inventive and amusing.
In Athens, around 500 BC, theater is invented. However, the audience at the first play doesn't understand the new art medium. Black turns in a good performance and the sketch has a silly charm to it, but it relies a little too heavily on one joke.
Reggae singers, played by Ego Nwodim and Thompson, sing about a goth teen (played by Michael Longfellow) on a family vacation to Jamaica. They are joined by Black as Gerard Way. It's a very funny song that features a characteristically excellent performance from Longfellow. Warning: it's very catchy.
The duo performed two songs: 'Little Richard's Bible" and 'Who Believes in Angels?' The first, 'Little Richard's Bible,' is an especially fun performance. It is high energy, and seeing John still able to rock out at the piano at 78 is terrific.
Weekend Update was good overall, with jokes about the stock market and Wallen, as well as returning characters Grant and Alyssa (the couple you can't believe are still together). However, if you are going to watch one segment, make it Nwodin's pitch to be the White House Correspondents Dinner comedian. She previews her set, roasting the dinner as Ms. Eggy, the baddest chick on the block. It's such a realized yet ridiculous character. Her commitment to the bit is hilarious, and her crowd interactions with the crowd (and subsequent improv) are infectious. Honestly, this is the hardest this writer has laughed this season.
Black and Sarah Sherman are about to make love, and of course, they need to sing a song about it in their silk pajamas. Bowen Yang and Carlile join in the action. This sketch is silly fun.
A jam session with Big Ricky and the Minnows gets dangerous when too many bass players join in on the action. This sketch really plays to Black's strengths while still casting him against type as the straight man. The use of Tom Petty's Free Falling and the location of a Southern lakeside bar also work very well in this sketch.
It's Times Square. WWII is over. Heidi Gardner plays a nurse who is kissed by a sailor. However, her boyfriend (played by Black) is upset. While this sketch could have been simple, there are a lot of zany jokes that build on the premise, including Black being a racist cartoonist and holding too many hotdogs. This sketch also has a great ending.
While this animated short was cut for time, it is a fun little sketch. Two kings hope to take each other on in an epic battle if only they could find each other. These animated shorts are a great addition to the season, and while this isn't the best one, it is still worth a watch.
SNL returns April 12 with host Jon Hamm and Lizzo.
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Billy Joel opens up about fallout with Elton John over ‘hurtful' rehab remark: ‘There was bad blood'
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Buzz Feed
7 hours ago
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31 Pairs Of Comfy Shoes Your Feet Will Love
Floral ballet flats that'll really up your shoe game, thanks to the oh-so-adorable cutouts that also allow your feet to breathe. Plus, they're so darn flexible, you can easily roll them up to pack for your vacays! Vintage Reebok sneakers to add a lil' retro vibe to your OOTD. They're so versatile that you can pair 'em with anything — dresses, skirts, sweats, you name it — and you'll absolutely slay while staying comfy all day. The midsoles are designed to absorb impact, and the padded foam sock liners will keep your feet nice and cushy. New Balance 574 Core Sneakers that are a cult-favorite, and deservedly so. Not only are they incredibly stylish, but they also feel like plush clouds with every step you take, thanks to the EVA midsole. Promising review: "I'm in love with these shoes! I love the look of them which I feel is very retro. The sizing is perfect as described. They are extremely comfortable and durable. I bought them before completing a month of walking 100 miles and they held up perfectly!" —A. WieseGet them from Amazon for $89.99 (available in sizes 5–12, wide sizes, and eight colors). Braided sandals, your new go-to summer shoes because why have flip-flops when you can have a plethora of straps?! The braids may look a lil' scratchy but fear not, they're soft AND adjustable. You can either dress them up for a fancy brunch or down for a walk on the beach — no matter what, you're going to look 🎶 H-O-T-T-O-G-O 🎶 !!! FYI, these are best suited for narrow to medium-sized feet. Promising reviews: "These sandals are like cotton candy clouds for your feet. Basically the Rolls-Royce of sandals." —A. Alphonse"Comfort is a key feature that sets Plaka sandals apart from the rest. The soft and flexible sole provides excellent cushioning and support, making them incredibly comfortable to wear for long periods. The sandals conform to the natural curves of my feet, offering a glove-like fit that feels like walking on clouds. The adjustable straps ensure a customized and secure fit, allowing me to walk with ease and without any discomfort or blisters." —AshleyGet them from Amazon for $34.95+ (available in whole sizes 5–11 and in 24 colors). Sorel wedge sandals with molded platform soles that'll give you the extra height you so desire without the pain. You'll be able to walk for miles without any aches because of the secure straps and molded EVA footbed! Braided heel sandals to rock it out on the dance floor at your bestie's wedding without having to take your shoes off before the "Cupid Shuffle" comes on. Heels that won't make your feet ache and throb? Yes, please!!! Handmade mules if you want to look as chic as possible (ofc you do)! These have pointed toes, gorgeous cutouts, and a slight heel — aren't you obsessed? Because I sure am. Zou Xou Shoes is a Black woman-owned business that has been creating handcrafted shoes by Argentinian shoemakers since 2015. The styles are easy and classic so they can be worn for years. These mules are handmade to order in European sizes, and they suggest sizing up. See the sizing chart (last photo on the listing) for more details!Promising review: "These shoes are very high quality and feel like butter every time I put them on. They only took two wears to break in and are one of the most comfortable shoes I've ever owned. Make sure to size up if you plan on ordering these beautiful shoes!" —gingerbread24Get them from Zou Xou Shoes on Etsy for $254 (available in European sizes 36-42, or US sizes 5.5–11). Mesh sneakers that are sooo comfy, reviewers have run 5Ks, hiked for miles, and stood for up to 18 hours in these bad boys without feeling any pain! Espadrille platform sandals so your feet can stay pain-free during sunshine-filled walks through the streets of Italy. Psst — reviewers with wide feet love these and say they fit perfectly! Allbirds Tree Runners — you *shouldn't* get these if you hate ridiculously lightweight and comfortable shoes. They're made with eucalyptus tree fibers (#sustainable, yay) so they're super breathable, aka your feet won't be marinating in sweat. If they do get sweaty or dirty, though, you can just toss 'em in the washing machine! Allbirds are known for their superior comfort, and the Tree Runners are no exception. Its shoelaces are even made from recycled plastic bottles!Note: Be sure to let them air dry after washing. Promising review: "Why did I wait so long??? I wish I could wear these shoes all day for everything! They're so comfortable and lightweight." —Stone, them from Allbirds for $100 (available in whole sizes 5–11 and 21 colors). Quick-drying, long-lasting Teva midform sandals since wearing hiking shoes in the middle of summer feels like walking through a swamp — yuck, no thanks! These are cute enough to wear to festivals, amusement parks, and everything in between, and they come in so many colors and designs that you're guaranteed to find one that fits your vibe. Water-resistant Dr. Scholl's slip-on sneakers because we don't have time to be tying our shoes in the morning! Reviewers say these give off Vans vibes but prefer these because they're way comfier — Dr. Scholl did not come to play with the cushioned insoles and arch support. Rhinestone pointed slip-on mules that are begging to be put in your cart because everything is better when it's ~bedazzled~. If you're on your feet all day long but want to add some bling-bling to your 'fit, you need these because they have both arch *and* heel support. Stretchy knit Rothy's flats, which run a little more on the expensive side but are totally worth the splurge because they're like heaven for your feet. They're made with a soft, stretchy material so you don't even have to break them in — I bet you didn't even think that was possible with flats, huh? *Plus* they're machine washable, so when they get sweaty and stinky, just toss 'em in the laundry! Or breathable pointed-toe ballet flats that come in such unique and fun prints and colors! The toe box is five degrees wider than standard pointed flats so your piggies won't feel cramped and suffocated. They have heel padding to prevent blisters (need), arch support (NEED), and a shock-absorbing midsole. (NEEEEED!!!) *Or* some budget-friendly ballet flats with over 48,000 5-star ratings — I mean, it just makes sense. The insoles are padded memory foam AND have a heel pillow to relieve any pressure (thank you, comfort gods). Life hack: Reviewers love keeping these in their purse as a backup shoe whenever they have to wear heels! Sam Edelman loafers guaranteed to girl-bossify you. They're going to be your go-to office shoes because they'll look absolutely fire with slacks, a skirt, and yes, even a dress. Birkenstock sandals so you can enjoy your hot girl walks without any pain because the footbed molds to the shape of your feet, with a deep heel cup, arch support, and raised toe bar providing unmatched comfort. Break these bad boys in, and you'll finally understand all the hype around Birks. Huarache sandals with leather strips woven into a hypnotic design — if you stare at these long enough, they'll probably talk you into buying them (but you won't regret it). They're 100% handmade and woven by Mexican artisans, so each pair is a little unique! Macarena Collection is a small biz based in Buena Park, California! Since they only make whole sizes, they suggest sizing down if you're in between sizes as the shoes will stretch and mold to your feet as you wear them. Promising review: "Can I give these 1,000 stars? They are soooooo comfortable!!! I was afraid because my feet are on the wider side, but oh my do they fit absolutely amazingly well!! Don't hesitate to buy them!! I love them! I love them! I Love them!!" —Jennifer BaezGet them from Macarena Collection on Etsy for $48.74 (originally $64.99; available in sizes 5–10). Lightweight Tioseban sneakers — they're definitely shoes, but they *feel* a bit like socks because the stretchy, breathable mesh top expands with your feet as you walk! Sizing up a half size if you have wide feet is review: "I like these shoes so much, I bought two pairs. My feet are very narrow, and I have trouble finding shoes that fit without coming off my heels. These have the comfort band that makes them very comfortable." —Jane from MAGet them from Amazon for $36.99+ (available in sizes 5–13, wide sizes, and in 32 colors). Lug sole sandals that'll seriously make a statement. They're so cute, so chunky, so lightweight — ugh, I'm obsessed. Reviewers say these earned them nonstop compliments, so don't say I didn't warn ya! High-top, platform Converse sneakers, aka the zhuzhed-up version of your classic Chuck Taylors. Not only do the platforms give you extra height, but they also provide an extra layer of cushioning! Nisolo flatform sandals, perfect for summer because their lightweight, breathable design won't let your feet overheat. Plus, you can strap 'em on and go for a 5-mile walk as soon as they arrive because they don't need a break-in period! Pillowy slippers that must have been made by the comfort gods themselves because over 800 reviewers say they're like walking on clouds ☁️ and as a proud owner of a pair myself, I wholeheartedly agree with that. Dr. Martens platform sandals with adjustable buckles (slay), super lightweight EVA soles (slaaay), and ripple tread platforms (SLAAAAY). Doc Martens always reign supreme in terms of style and quality, and the same is true of these adorable yet comfy sandals! 🙏 Breathable sport shoes you can slip on to play pickleball in the morning, run errands in the afternoon, and walk around the city at night — yup, they're that comfy. Plus, the stitching and adorable designs are to die for! Promising review: "I have never been compelled to write a review, but these shoes are soooo beautiful!!! I got the pink and gold and they are comfy and pretty. I cannot keep count of the total strangers on the street stopping me and saying how much they love my shoes and asking me where I got them!!! This price is amazing, and I truly can say I got bang for my buck! True to size, I'm an 8 and ordered the 8 and they fit perfectly." —Dora them from Amazon for $20.99+ (available in sizes 6–11 and in eight colors). Fuzzy memory foam slippers so you can lounge around in style 24/7! But they're more than just adorable house slippers — they have waterproof, anti-slip soles so you can totally wear them to walk your doggo, grab the mail, and even go grocery shopping. Plus, the open-toe design makes them pretty breathable, so the fuzz won't make you overheat! Slip-on mules that are so elegant yet surprisingly comfy — perfect for wearing to the office, then straight to dinner with friends. They're also quite similar to Madewell's Gemma mules, so if you're looking for a budget-friendly alternative, these are just for you. Promising reviews: "I was so happy to find stylish shoes to fit my small feet (size 5)! That is not an easy feat these days. I love the shoes. When I first put them on, I did not think they were going to be comfortable. However, after I had worn them for just a short while, I realized they were actually very, very comfortable. They are also not smooth on the bottom but have a sole that has slight ridges, and therefore not slippery, which you find with some flats." —Karen Hulshouser "I really love these shoes. I've been eyeing the Madewell Gemma mules for months, but stumbled upon these and decided to take a chance. These are super comfortable and easy to walk in." —Hannah NewsomeGet them from Amazon for $35.97+ (available in sizes 5–11 and five colors and patterns). Platform sandals letting you have the 🎶 best of both worlds 🎶, aka the comfort of sandals and the stylish look of heels — a double life, if you will. They have cushioned insoles, adjustable ankle straps, and ridged soles that'll give you peak stability! A reliable pair of Crocs that may not be the *most* stylish of shoes but are definitely the comfiest. I think we should all be glad that these have made their comeback from the early 2000s because their cushy soles and ventilation ports are blessings for sweaty feet. Plus, you can add on some charms to give 'em personality! A pair of comfortable clogs because the Birkenstock Boston clogs are cute and all, but you know what's not? The hefty price. These look exactly the same, minus the logo — but let's be so real, no one's checking for that. And you know what's funny? A lot of reviewers actually think that these are comfier than Birks!