Colin & Michael's Weekend Update: Aks

Picture this: It's the weekend, and you're tuning into Saturday Night Live (SNL). The stage is set, the house lights dim, and then boom! Colin Jost and Michael Che take their seats at the Weekend Update desk. This dynamic duo has been serving up laughs and sharp commentary since 2014, making them an inseparable part of SNL's comedic fabric. So, buckle up as we dive into the world of Colin and Michael's Weekend Update, from its inception to its unique brand of humor.

To truly appreciate their reign at the Weekend Update desk, let's rewind to 1975, when the first-ever SNL Weekend Update was born. Created by Chevy Chase, the segment was a satirical take on the nightly news, offering a fresh and hilarious perspective on current events. Since then, it's been a launching pad for-comedic legends like Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Dennis Miller. Enter Colin Jost and Michael Che, who took the helm in 2014, bringing their own unique flair to the iconic desk.

Colin Jost: The Straight Man

Colin Jost, born and raised in New York, has been a writer for SNL since 2005. His journey from writer to co-anchor is a testament to his dedication and comedic prowess. Jost is often seen as the 'straight man' of the duo, delivering jokes with a deadpan expression that amplifies their impact. His dry humor and impeccable timing create the perfect foil for Michael Che's comedic style.

Jost's role as head writer for SNL has enabled him to contribute to the show's script vitally. His ability to balance humor with insightful political commentary makes him an invaluable asset to the Weekend Update desk. Plus, let's not forget his romantic life, which has provided ample material for jokes, having dated SNL cast member, and pop culture icon, SNL's Kenan Thompson.

Colin Jost's Jokes: Timing is Key

Jost's comedic timing is flawless. He doesn't rely on over-the-top reactions; instead, he uses subtle facial expressions and pauses to drive home his punchlines. This understated delivery method adds to the humor, making Jost's jokes uniquely his own. Catch him in action delivering one-liners like, "Donald Trump announced that he's going to build a wall to keep out illegal immigrants. And if that doesn't work, he's going to build a 'Make America Great Again' hat and hope they get lost trying to find the Busch Gardens exit."

Another standout feature of Jost's jokes is their political acumen. He consistently addresses relevant political issues with sharp wit and intelligence. For instance, he once sarcastically"If election night was like a presidential debate, it was like a presidential debate where one person shows up and the other person is just a pile of mashed potatoes," Jost quipped, referencing Donald Trump's 2016 election victory.

Colin Jost: A Comedic Evolution

Over the years, Jost's style has evolved, becoming more assertive and outspoken. Initially seen as a ' Backup quarterback' when he started with Che, Jost has grown into his own, holding his own and often stealing the show. His evolution is evident in his improved joke-writing skills and growing confidence behind the desk.

Jost's comedic growth is further highlighted in his co-authored book "A Very Punchable Face: A Memoir," which satirizes his privileged upbringing and offers insight into his comedic sensibility. His ability to poke fun at himself and his personal life has led to more relatable and engaging humor.

Michael Che: The Unpredictable Wild Card

Born and raised in Manhattan, Michael Che joined SNL as a writer in 2014 before taking over the Weekend Update desk with Jost. His comedic style is markedly different from Jost's, with a more raw and unpredictable energy that often catches Jost off guard. Che's haphazard appearance, dismissive hand gestures, and impromptu riffs add to his unique charm.

Michael Che's background, growing up in roughedge neighborhoods in New York, informs his comedy. He brings a unique perspective to SNL, tackling subjects like race, class, and politics with unapologetic honesty. His willingness to tackle sensitive subjects head-on makes his comedy daring and thought-provoking.

Michael Che's Jokes: When Good Intentions Go Bad

Che's comedy often revolves around the mundane and the absurd, with him frequently playing the role of an oblivious or misunderstandPerstanding character. His jokes frequently start with good intentions but quickly devolve into disastrous and hilarious outcomes. Take this gem: "I read that scientists found liquid water on Mars. That's awful! Now, there's no excuse for us to stay here and clean up our own mess."

Che's uncanny ability to find humor in everyday situations is remarkable. His jokes often take unexpected turns, keeping viewers on their toes. He once quipped, "They say that the new 'Ghostbusters' movie is going to have all-female leads. That's great! Because my girlfriend told me we can't watch the old one anymore, so I thought maybe I could take her to see the new one. And then I thought, 'Well, the good news is, there's no chance that I'll ever watch that movie. Because they're only making one for women.'"

Michael Che: The Improvisational Master

Michael Che's delivery is immediately recognizable, with his laid-back, almost disinterested tone. Yet, this seemingly careless attitude is deceptive. Che is a master improviser, often using what Jost says as a springboard for his own improvised riff. This willingness to engage in spontaneous humor adds a layer of unpredictability to their dynamic duo act.

In fact, Che is so good at improv that it often takes SNL producers by surprise. During a segment where they were supposed to report live from a TV station, Che started ad-libbing jokes that were so funny, the producers had to cut to commercial early to avoid going over their time slot.

Colin and Michael's Weekend Update is more than just a comedy sketch; it's a testament to their complementary styles and the unique bond they share. From their relentless ribbing of each other to their shared love for self-deprecation, their dynamic is a critical part of SNL's comedic legacy. So, the next time you settle in for a weekend night of laughter, remember that what makes Colin and Michael's Weekend Update so special is their ability to balance humor with emotion, politics with personal, and laughter with learning. Now, if you'll excuse me, I think I hear the Jost-Che duo calling my name - it's time for another update.