Standup comic Nikki Glaser made her hosting debut in this episode. The monologue, which was mostly new material written by Glaser, was superb. But, the episode proceeded much like the rest of the season: very uneven, and relying on rehashed ideas or silly concepts.
Ashley Padilla continued to shine in her second season on the show. With Heidi Gardner and Ego Nwodim having left before Season 51, it has left a vacuum for a female lead. Padilla has the bets sketch and acting chops of the female cast members.
An expansive and rollicking sketch called “Mechanical Bull” was one of the highlights of the live portions of the show. An animated short titled “Brad and His Dad” debuted, written by Streeter Seidell and Mikey Day. But the best part of the evening was the 10-to-1 sketch, called “Pinwheel.” The sketch was a showcase for featured player Jeremy Culhane, who showed off his excellent comedic skills opposite Day and Glaser.
Former cast member Pete Davidson made a guest appearance during Weekend Update.
Nikki Glaser SNL Season 51 Cold Open
Oval Office sketch featuring fainting spell by businessman during prescription drug announcement. James Austin Johnson as Donald Trump, also featuring Andrew Dismukes, Mikey Day, and Marcello Hernandez
