Ep 1. Reese Witherspoon/Alicia Keys
- Not Rated
- September 29, 2001
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6.6 (85)
In the season premiere of Saturday Night Live's 27th season, Reese Witherspoon takes the stage alongside musical guest Alicia Keys for an episode full of hilarious sketches, parodies, and musical performances. This episode marks Witherspoon's second time hosting the show and Keys' third time as a musical guest.
The show opens with a parody of the vice-presidential debate, with Darrell Hammond playing Dick Cheney and Maya Rudolph playing John Edwards. The sketch sets the tone for the episode's political commentary and satire, and is followed by a series of sketches that skewer everything from celebrity culture to workplace dynamics.
One standout sketch features Witherspoon as a suburban mom who gets unexpectedly caught up in a street racing crew. The sketch is a clever take on Fast and Furious-style action movies, and Witherspoon's comedic timing and physicality are on full display. Another memorable sketch features cast member Andy Samberg as Nick Lachey, hosting his own MTV talk show. Witherspoon joins him as Jessica Simpson, and the two play up the absurdity of their pop culture personas.
In addition to the sketches, the episode features several Weekend Update segments, with anchors Jimmy Fallon and Tina Fey delivering their signature blend of news commentary and absurdist humor. A standout moment from the segment involves Fallon doing a spot-on impression of former presidential candidate John Kerry.
Musical guest Alicia Keys performs several songs throughout the episode, including her hit "Fallin'" and a powerful rendition of "If I Ain't Got You." Keys' performances are interspersed throughout the show, adding energy and emotion to the proceedings.
Overall, the season premiere of Saturday Night Live's 27th season is a strong one, featuring hilarious sketches, memorable impressions, and standout musical performances. Host Reese Witherspoon and musical guest Alicia Keys are both at the top of their game, making for an episode that is sure to entertain fans of the long-running sketch comedy series.
