Amid new claims of sexual misconduct, comedian Louis C.K. took to the SNL stage to close out the show’s 40th season. As expected, there was no acknowledgement of the alleged incident (incidents, really, since these rumors have been popping up since 2012), with C.K. getting some uncomfortable laughs during his provocative monologue about child molesters. The 40th season’s final chapter has been, shocker, somewhat disappointing. Reese Witherspoon and Scarlett Johansson tackled cruddy material, while Taraji P. Henson and Dwayne Johnson fared better. But SNL has bounced back from worse, and the show’s growing pains are starting to temper. Say goodbye to 40 with C.K. and musical guest Rihanna, who was perhaps the best part of last night’s episode with a striking multimedia performance.
The Best
“Summertime Cold Open”
Hillary Clinton is gearing up for summer and at it again. She can’t wait to turn 69.
“Louis C.K. Monologue”
The short version of a C.K. stand-up special with some welcome provocation.
“The Shoemaker & the Elves”
SNL got weird early in the evening with C.K.’s shoemaker and his kinky elves.
“This Is How I Talk”
C.K. and Leslie Jones have amazing chemistry. That’s a comedy event I’d happily attend. Jones has adjusted to the live television format nicely. She’s maintained her naturalism, but is able to rein in the laughter a little easier.
“Weekend Update”
Ah, the anxiety of wondering if Michael Che’s pal Riblet (Bobby Moynihan, really) will replace the “Weekend Update” co-anchor, because this feels like a test run. Pete Davidson vocalizes what some audiences are already thinking, wondering aloud why he’s even on the show. Young Pete has put in his dues this season, so here’s hoping SNL utilizes his talents to the fullest next go-round.
“Forgotten TV Gems: Whoops! I Married a Lesbian”
Lesbians during the Golden Age of Television.
The Worst
“Wood PSAs”
Feels like a wasted opportunity and a lazy fill-in for a complete sketch.
“Cabana”
Cecily Strong’s toothy smile as Brit girl Gemma was very Jim Carrey’s Fire Marshal Bill (the best part of the sketch). C.K. and company didn’t take it far enough. Can someone get Dwayne Johnson back in here?
“Police Lineup”
Great premise, but too damn long, SNL.
Musical Guest: Rihanna