The iconic comedy rap group The Lonely Island made a triumphant return to Saturday Night Live during the show’s 50th season premiere, marking their first appearance since 2018. Andy Samberg and Akiva Schaffer, two-thirds of the group, reunited to present a new digital short that pushed the boundaries of taste with their signature brand of absurdist humor.
In a callback to their famous “D–k in a Box” sketch from 2006, Samberg and Schaffer portrayed ambitious entrepreneurs pitching an outlandish business concept: sushi served through glory holes. The duo, known for their ability to sell ridiculous ideas with unwavering confidence, launched into a rap extolling the virtues of their proposed venture, “Sushi Glory Hole.”
The sketch began with Samberg and Schaffer addressing a group of potential investors, played by SNL cast members Bowen Yang, Maya Rudolph, and Kenan Thompson. As the businessmen attempted to flee the room in disgust, the rappers cornered them, insisting on explaining the various applications of their unorthodox sushi delivery system.
What followed was a montage that pushed the limits of good taste, featuring SNL cast members consuming anonymous sushi through holes in bathroom stalls across Manhattan. The juxtaposition of high-end cuisine with the questionable hygiene of public restrooms created a comedic tension that is quintessentially Lonely Island.
Samberg’s performance particularly stood out, demonstrating that his comedic timing and delivery have not dulled since his departure from SNL. At one point, he elicited cheers and laughter from the audience through sheer force of personality, rapidly delivering his verses with the skill of a seasoned performer.
The unexpected appearance of The Lonely Island in just the second episode of the season has sparked excitement among fans, hinting at the potential for more surprise throwbacks and guest appearances as SNL celebrates its milestone 50th season. The show’s willingness to bring back beloved alumni and revisit popular formats suggests a season that will balance nostalgia with fresh comedy.
This digital short serves as a reminder of The Lonely Island’s unique ability to craft memorable, if sometimes shockingly crude, comedy songs. Their return to SNL demonstrates that their particular brand of humor still resonates with audiences, even as tastes and trends in comedy evolve.
The sketch also highlights SNL’s continued relevance in the digital age. While the show has always been known for its live performances, pre-recorded segments like “Sushi Glory Hole” often gain significant traction online, extending the reach and impact of the show beyond its Saturday night time slot.
As SNL moves through its historic 50th season, the return of The Lonely Island sets a high bar for future episodes. It remains to be seen what other surprises the show has in store, but if this digital short is any indication, viewers can expect a season that pays homage to its rich history while continuing to push comedic boundaries.
The appearance of Samberg and Schaffer also raises questions about potential future collaborations. While this sketch featured only two-thirds of The Lonely Island, fans are undoubtedly hoping for a full reunion, including Jorma Taccone, at some point during the season.
As SNL continues to navigate the changing landscape of comedy and entertainment, the inclusion of beloved alumni like The Lonely Island demonstrates the show’s ability to bridge generational gaps and appeal to a wide range of viewers. Whether through live sketches, digital shorts, or musical performances, SNL’s 50th season is shaping up to be a celebration of the show’s enduring legacy in American comedy.