WASHINGTON, D.C. - JUNE 20: Comedian Dave Chappelle speaks at the dedication of the theater at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Washington, D.C. on June 20, 2022. The auditorium was set to be renamed for alum Dave Chappelle but, in a surprise move, he asked the theater to be named Theater for Artistic Freedom and Expression. (Amanda Andrade-Rhoades/For The Washington Post via Getty Images)
Dave Chappelle hosted Saturday Night Live for the fourth time on Jan. 18, delivering a monologue filled with his signature humor and social commentary.
The comedian, 51, tackled topics ranging from the California wildfires and Donald Trump’s return to the presidency to the allegations surrounding music mogul Sean Combs.
Chappelle opened his set by addressing the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, joking that their high cost was due to the city’s wealth.
“I think that’s because people in L.A. have nice stuff. I could burn 40,000 acres in Mississippi for like $600 or $700,” he quipped.
He also touched on conspiracy theories regarding the fires, referencing Luigi Mangione, the man accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, and noting how some individuals “lost their fire insurance” shortly before the blazes began.
Turning to the world of celebrity, Chappelle humorously compared fame to storming the beaches of Normandy, suggesting that it’s no longer enjoyable. He also commented on the controversy surrounding Combs, joking that he wasn’t invited to the alleged “Freak Off parties” because, “Oh my god, I’m ugly.”
Chappelle also acknowledged Donald Trump’s return to the presidency.
“Donald Trump is coming back. He’ll be the 47th president. He’s done it again,” he said.
The comedian urged Trump to lead with empathy, adding, “Whether people voted for you or not, they’re all counting on you.”
Reflecting on former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away in December at age 100, Chappelle praised Carter’s humanity and encouraged Trump to embrace a similar approach. “The presidency is no place for petty people,” he remarked, before calling on Trump and the audience to “do better next time.”
Chappelle’s appearance brings him closer to joining SNL’s exclusive Five-Timers Club, which includes stars like Will Ferrell and Tina Fey. He previously won Emmys for his hosting in 2017 and 2021, including his first appearance after Trump’s 2016 election.
The comedian’s return follows previous controversies, including backlash from his 2021 Netflix special, The Closer, for remarks targeting the LGBTQ community.
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