Ryan Gosling's Comedic Triumph on "Saturday Night Live"

Ryan Gosling's third appearance as host on "Saturday Night Live" was a riot of laughter and nostalgia. The episode was replete with surprise appearances, sequels to fan-favorite skits, and cast members who found it challenging to keep a straight face. Gosling's opening monologue humorously declared his "breakup" with Ken, a nod to his time as Ken from "Barbie". He then delivered a hilarious parody of Taylor Swift's "All Too Well," reminiscing about his "Barbie" days. Emily Blunt, Gosling's co-star from "The Fall Guy," joined him on stage for a duet titled "Barbenheimer summer" where they sang about their characters from "Barbie" and "Oppenheimer".

Laughter Contagion on Live TV

Throughout the episode, Gosling and his fellow cast members found it nearly impossible to stay in character, often succumbing to fits of laughter. Even in skits where Gosling portrayed a man having second thoughts about his engagement or a doctor defending himself against accusations of patient death, the infectious giggles were hard to resist. The only parts of the show without any character-breaking were the pre-recorded sketches, including a sequel to Gosling's 2017 skit "Papyrus." This sketch saw him humorously confronting the creator of the "Avatar" movie font.

Some might criticize the constant laughter from Gosling and the cast as self-indulgent. However, it unquestionably enhanced the enjoyment of the live audience and viewers at home. Gosling's knack for blending intensity with comedy has become a notable characteristic of his "SNL" hosting appearances. Even amid the laughter, he delivered robust performances throughout the episode.

Highlight Sketches of the Night

Stand-out sketches of the evening included "The Engagement," a dialogue-driven skit where Gosling whispered ludicrous lines to Andrew Dismukes, and "Get That Boy Back," a catchy country tune featuring musical guest Chris Stapleton. Gosling also demonstrated his commitment to comedy in sketches like "Can't Tonight," where he adopted a Latin accent alongside his Cuban and Dominican friends.

A Memorable Finale

The episode concluded on a high note with a cut-for-time sketch, a sequel to the beloved "Papyrus" sketch. Gosling's infectious laughter persisted throughout the show, but it didn't overshadow the funny and memorable moments crafted by the entire cast.

Overall, Ryan Gosling's return to "Saturday Night Live" was a comedic delight. His ability to break character and laugh along with fellow cast members enhanced the enjoyment of the sketches. Despite the constant laughter, Gosling delivered strong performances and showcased his comedic talent. The episode was brimming with unforgettable moments, demonstrating that Gosling is not only a talented actor but also a skilled comedic performer.