Paul Mescal, at the age of 28, made a highly anticipated debut on Saturday Night Live on December 7. This was a momentous occasion as he hosted the late-night comedy sketch series with Shaboozey as the musical guest. In one of the sketches, his recently released Gladiator II was transformed into a musical, following the success of Wicked and Moana 2. Mescal, reprising his role of Lucius Verus Aurelius, showcased his remarkable singing skills. Throughout the parody tune, he passionately declared, "There’s no place like Rome." At the end of the sketch, an astonishing sight unfolded as Mescal was seen flying away from the Colosseum on a broomstick while donning a witches hat, adding his own unique twist to Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba riff from Wicked‘s iconic "Defying Gravity" number. This performance truly defied all expectations and left the audience in awe.

Paul Mescal's Saturday Night Live Extravaganza

Gladiator II Musical Reimagining

Mescal's decision to reimagine Gladiator II as a musical was a bold move. It not only demonstrated his creative range but also highlighted his ability to adapt to different genres. The sketch was a visual and auditory feast, with Mescal's powerful vocals and the energetic choreography. It was a testament to his talent and the potential for unexpected collaborations in the entertainment industry.This reimagining also sparked conversations about the future of musical adaptations and how they can breathe new life into classic stories. It showed that even established franchises can be reinvented in exciting ways, captivating audiences in the process.

College Student Sketch

In another sketch, Mescal played a college student surprising his parents with a new earring. This sketch offered a glimpse into his comedic side, as he navigated the awkwardness of the situation with charm and humor. It showcased his ability to connect with different characters and bring them to life on stage.The college student sketch was a reminder of Mescal's versatility as an actor. He can effortlessly transition from intense dramatic roles to light-hearted comedic ones, proving that he is a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment world.

Pirate Stripper Sketch

Mescal's portrayal of a pirate stripper at a club hosting a bachelorette party was a completely unexpected turn. It added a new dimension to his on-screen persona and demonstrated his willingness to take on challenging and unconventional roles.This sketch was a riot of colors and energy, with Mescal's comedic timing and physicality stealing the show. It showed that he is not afraid to push the boundaries and explore different aspects of his acting abilities.

Musical Performances

For his first musical performance, Shaboozey, 29, delivered an outstanding rendition of "Good News" on November 15. His powerful vocals and stage presence captivated the audience from the very beginning.During his second set, Shaboozey sang his track "A Bar Song (Tipsy)." This tune recently tied Lil Nas X’s "Old Town Road" as the longest-running number-one song of all time on the US Billboard Hot 100 with 19 weeks at the top spot. It was a testament to Shaboozey's talent and the popularity of his music.Mescal's hosting of Saturday Night Live was a celebration of his talent and the diversity of his work. He proved that he is a true star, capable of captivating audiences with his performances in various genres.