Molly Shannon’s return to Saturday Night Live was a triumphant comeback to the iconic sketch comedy show that launched her illustrious career. Her opening monologue was a heartfelt and uplifting tribute to her past year’s successes, with a show-stopping musical number inspired by the show tunes her father played when she was a child. The monologue was a nostalgic trip down memory lane, regaling the audience with stories of her remarkable year, including her children’s graduations and the success of her memoir, Hello, Molly!.
Shannon’s time on SNL, from 1995 to 2001, solidified her position as a cornerstone of the show, with memorable recurring characters like Jeannie Darcy, Sally O’Malley, and Mary Katherine Gallagher. These characters have become synonymous with Shannon’s brand of humor, and her ability to breathe life into them was a testament to her impressive comedic range. Her children’s graduations are a testament to the passing of time, and Shannon’s return to SNL is a reminder that even the most successful performers can continue to grow and evolve.
Shannon’s writing career has also flourished, with her New York Times bestseller memoir, Hello, Molly!, offering a candid account of her childhood and her rise in Hollywood. The memoir is a testament to Shannon’s ability to tap into her emotional depth, and offers a Look into the life of a woman who has been a beloved fixture on the comedy scene. Since departing from SNL, Shannon has demonstrated her versatility by appearing in a range of roles, including Pat Dubek in the HBO Max series The Other Two and Kitty Patton, the overbearing mother-in-law, in the hit series The White Lotus.
Molly Shannon (Via Molly Shannon/Twitter)
Shannon’s dramatic performances have garnered attention, with her nomination for Best Supporting Actress at the Independent Spirit Awards for her portrayal of real-life poet Emily Dickinson in 2018’s Wild Nights With Emily. Her ability to take on a wide range of roles and characters has cemented her status as a sought-after performer, and her upcoming role in Zach Braff’s A Good Person, opposite Florence Pugh and Morgan Freeman, is a testament to her enduring talent. Shannon’s return to SNL was a celebration of her remarkable career, and her ability to continue to push the boundaries of her craft. Her performance was a reminder that even the most successful performers can still bring their unique charm and wit to the stage.
As an American comedy icon, Shannon’s legacy is already cemented, but her return to SNL was a testament to her enduring talent and legacy. With her numerous accolades and her continued versatility, Shannon is a comedic force to be reckoned with, and her return to SNL was a momentous occasion that left audiences in awe of her talents.
