It’s hard to believe that it’s been almost ten years since Dakota Johnson made her debut as host of “SNL” back in early 2015. A lot has happened since then, and the world has certainly gone through some major transformations.
During her second stint as host this weekend, the talented star of “Madame Web” reminisced about her first experience on SNL, sharing some of her most memorable moments in her opening monologue.
When Johnson hosted Saturday Night Live on February 28, 2015, it was around the time when the movie Fifty Shades of Grey was released and shortly after the grand SNL 40th anniversary celebration. Johnson revealed that she was actually in the audience for that special occasion and even shared a star-studded photo from the event.
“Take a glance at this diverse group of individuals: Sarah Palin, George Lucas, and Steven Spielberg. And guess who I found right behind me,” she exclaimed, drawing closer to a beaming Donald Trump. This encounter occurred almost two years prior to his victorious 2016 presidential campaign.”
“It’s absolutely mind-boggling to be in such close proximity to someone who would eventually hold the highest position in the United States,” Johnson exclaimed, capturing the surreal moment. The camera then panned to reveal none other than Taylor Swift, seated just inches away from her.
Dakota Johnson’s Memorable Appearance at SNL40
During Johnson’s monologue, it was evident that she had everything under control. However, Justin Timberlake, a well-known member of SNL’s esteemed Five-Timers Club, couldn’t resist crashing the stage when Johnson introduced him as the musical guest.
“Hey Justin, what brings you up here? Are you lost?” Johnson questioned curiously. Timberlake confessed that he overheard his name being mentioned and thought it was his signal to make an appearance. The actress playfully reminded Timberlake that he was merely the “musical guest” and subtly teased his recent endeavor to make a comeback in the pop music scene.
In spite of that, Timberlake was determined and reassured her that he had previous experience hosting sketches. He even gestured with his hands, indicating that he had done it “five times.” However, Johnson quickly retorted, stating that it had been 10 years since then.
Timberlake didn’t give up easily and had some support on his side. Former SNL star, Jimmy Fallon, joined Timberlake and Johnson on stage, dressed as Barry Gibb, to wish the host good luck. Fallon humorously said, “Break a leg.”
Talkin' it up on The Barry Gibb Talk Show! pic.twitter.com/MqEPXP4IAN
— Saturday Night Live – SNL (@nbcsnl) January 28, 2024
After the monologue, Fallon’s costume wasn’t left unused. Right after, he and Timberlake brought back “The Barry Gibb Talk Show,” a sketch they have done together multiple times in the past. During this segment, Johnson played the role of a guest while Fallon and Timberlake, both seasoned “SNL” performers, stole the spotlight.