SNL Cold Open: A Hilarious Start To Saturday Night

The SNL cold open is a comedic sketch that kicks off each episode of Saturday Night Live. It typically involves political satire or parodies of current events and pop culture, setting the stage for the rest of the show. This long-standing tradition has produced some of the most memorable moments in television history.

Key Takeaways

• The SNL cold open is the opening sketch of Saturday Night Live, often featuring political satire or parodies of current events.
• It's a crucial part of the show's format and has been a consistent feature since the early seasons.
• Many famous sketches and recurring characters originated in the cold open.
• The goal is to grab the audience's attention immediately and set a comedic tone for the show.
• The cold open frequently features guest appearances and celebrity cameos.

Introduction

Since its debut in 1975, Saturday Night Live has become a cultural institution, and the cold open is a cornerstone of its success. This opening sketch is more than just a comedic bit; it's a commentary on our times, delivered with wit and satire. The cold open often sets the tone for the entire show, tackling current events and pop culture with humor. Its impact is undeniable, often sparking conversations and going viral online.

What & Why of SNL Cold Opens

What is an SNL Cold Open?

The cold open is the first segment of Saturday Night Live, airing immediately after the show's opening montage and monologue. It's a self-contained sketch, typically lasting 5-10 minutes, designed to grab the audience's attention from the start. The term "cold open" refers to the fact that the sketch begins without any introduction or formal welcome from the host.

Why is the Cold Open So Important?

The cold open serves several crucial functions:

• Sets the Tone: It establishes the comedic tone for the rest of the show, giving viewers a taste of what to expect.
• Addresses Current Events: It often tackles topical issues, providing a comedic take on politics, news, and pop culture.
• Showcases Cast Members: It provides opportunities for cast members to shine and debut memorable characters.
• Attracts Viewers: A strong cold open can generate buzz and entice viewers to keep watching.

Benefits of a Great Cold Open

• Increased Viewership: A viral cold open can significantly boost the show's overall ratings.
• Cultural Impact: Memorable sketches can enter the cultural lexicon and become widely referenced.
• Career Launchpad: A standout performance in a cold open can catapult a cast member to stardom.

Potential Risks

• Falling Flat: A poorly executed cold open can be a major disappointment and turn viewers off.
• Backlash: Political satire can be controversial and lead to negative reactions if not handled carefully.
• Predictability: Relying too heavily on the same formula can make the cold open feel stale.

How SNL Cold Opens Work: A Step-by-Step Look

The creation of an SNL cold open involves a collaborative process, typically unfolding over the course of the week leading up to the show.

1. Brainstorming: Writers and cast members pitch ideas based on current events and cultural trends.
2. Writing: Once an idea is selected, writers develop the concept into a fully fleshed-out sketch.
3. Rehearsals: The cast rehearses the sketch throughout the week, refining the timing and delivery.
4. Costume and Set Design: The costume and set departments create the visual elements of the sketch.
5. Performance: The cold open is performed live at the beginning of the show.
6. Post-Production (for online release): The clip is often edited and released online, extending its reach.

Examples & Use Cases of Memorable SNL Cold Opens

• Sarah Palin Cold Opens (2008): Tina Fey's portrayal of Sarah Palin during the 2008 presidential election became a cultural phenomenon, boosting SNL's ratings and influencing public perception.
• The Clinton Cold Opens (1990s): Phil Hartman's portrayal of Bill Clinton is considered one of the show's best impersonations and the sketches remain comedy gold.
• George W. Bush Cold Opens (2000s): Will Ferrell's George W. Bush was a hilarious but pointed take on the then-President.
• The Trump Era Cold Opens (2016-2020): Alec Baldwin's impersonation of Donald Trump generated significant media attention and controversy, highlighting the power of political satire.
• Biden Cold Opens (2020-Present): James Austin Johnson's Joe Biden has offered a more gentle comedic approach to political satire.

These examples demonstrate the wide range of topics and approaches that SNL cold opens can take, highlighting their importance in political and cultural discourse.

Best Practices & Common Mistakes in Creating SNL Cold Opens

Best Practices

• Be Timely: Address current events and issues that are relevant to the audience.
• Be Smart: Offer insightful commentary and avoid cheap shots.
• Be Funny: Above all, the cold open should be entertaining and generate laughter.
• Commit to the Premise: Fully embrace the characters and situations in the sketch.
• Surprise the Audience: Throw in unexpected twists and turns to keep viewers engaged.

Common Mistakes

• Being Too Predictable: Relying on the same jokes or formats can make the cold open feel stale.
• Being Too Partisan: Alienating viewers with overly biased political commentary.
• Being Unfunny: Failing to deliver on the comedic promise of the sketch.
• Being Too Long: Losing the audience's attention with a sketch that drags on.
• Not Connecting with the Audience: Choosing topics or jokes that don't resonate with viewers.

FAQs About SNL Cold Opens

1. What exactly is a cold open on SNL?

The cold open is the first sketch of Saturday Night Live, beginning immediately after the opening montage. It usually involves political satire or parodies of current events.

2. Why is it called a "cold open"?

The term "cold open" means the sketch starts without any introduction from the host or cast, jumping right into the scene. — NYC Weather In October: What To Expect

3. How long is a typical SNL cold open?

A typical SNL cold open lasts between 5 and 10 minutes.

4. What makes a good SNL cold open?

A good cold open is timely, funny, insightful, and well-performed, grabbing the audience's attention from the start. — Baton Rouge Time Now: What Time Is It?

5. Are SNL cold opens always political?

While many cold opens focus on politics, they can also parody pop culture, current events, or even feature original characters and scenarios. — The UPS Store In Dalton, GA: Services & Locations

6. Who writes the SNL cold opens?

The SNL writing team, which includes the show's head writers and cast members, collaborates to write the cold opens.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the SNL Cold Open

The Saturday Night Live cold open remains a vital part of the show's enduring appeal. Its ability to tackle current events with humor and satire has made it a cultural touchstone. Whether you're a fan of political comedy or pop culture parodies, the SNL cold open consistently delivers memorable moments. Watch the next Saturday Night Live and see what comedic commentary they bring to the opening of the show!

Last updated: October 26, 2023, 16:32 UTC