John Mulaney's recent hosting gig on Saturday Night Live was marked by more than just his comedic prowess. The 42-year-old comedian took the opportunity to share heartwarming insights into his life as a new father, captivating the audience with his candid and relatable anecdotes.

A Comedian's Journey into Parenthood

Welcoming a Daughter, Cherishing a Son

Mulaney's opening monologue was a testament to the joys and challenges of parenthood. The comedian proudly announced the arrival of his and wife Olivia Munn's newborn daughter, Méi June, born via gestational surrogate on September 14th. Alongside their 2-year-old son, Malcolm Hiệp, the family's dynamic has undoubtedly shifted, as Mulaney humorously described the unequal distribution of childcare responsibilities. "My wife takes care of the 5 week old and I take the two year old out. And that's not fair," he joked, drawing laughter from the audience.

Playful Analogies and Heartfelt Shoutouts

Mulaney's comedic talents shone through as he drew a playful analogy to illustrate the disparity in childcare duties. "Saying you have a 5 week old, I'll take a two year old. That's like saying 'I'll transport this convict across state lines, you hold a potato,'" he quipped, eliciting roars of laughter from the crowd. Later, as the show came to a close, Mulaney took a moment to shout out his children, waving to the camera and bidding "Goodnight Malcom, goodnight Méi," a heartwarming gesture that showcased his devotion as a father.

A Comedic Homecoming

Mulaney's return to SNL was a homecoming of sorts, as the comedian had previously served as a writer on the show for five years, beginning in 2008. His recurring character, Stefon, co-created with cast member Bill Hader, had made its "Weekend Update" debut during that time. Mulaney's hosting duties marked his fifth time gracing the SNL stage, solidifying his status as a member of the prestigious Five-Timers Club, which includes other renowned entertainers such as Christopher Walken, Emma Stone, and Alec Baldwin.

Expanding Creative Horizons

Beyond his SNL appearance, Mulaney has been actively expanding his creative horizons. Earlier this year, he narrated the audiobook for Glory Days, a collection of short stories written by former SNL writer Simon Rich. Additionally, the comedian recently starred in John Mulaney Presents: Everybody's in L.A., a six-night live event that was part of this year's Netflix Is a Joke comedy festival. The streaming service has also announced that Mulaney will star in another live variety talk show on Netflix in 2025, further solidifying his status as a multifaceted entertainer.

A Surprise Appearance and a Pared-Down Look

Mulaney's SNL hosting duties were not the only notable moments of the night. Kamala Harris made a surprise appearance in the cold open, with Maya Rudolph reprising her role as the vice president. Elsewhere in the show, cast member Pete Davidson, known for his extensive tattoos, made a cameo in a sketch titled "Port Authority Duane Reade," sporting a more pared-down look with significantly less ink visible on his arms.In the end, John Mulaney's SNL hosting gig was a heartwarming and multifaceted affair, showcasing his comedic prowess, his personal journey into fatherhood, and his continued evolution as a versatile and acclaimed entertainer. Fans and audiences alike were treated to a glimpse into Mulaney's life, both on and off the stage, leaving a lasting impression and solidifying his status as a beloved figure in the world of comedy.