Ep 3. Bill Hader/Hozier

Bill Hader returns to host Saturday Night Live for the second time since departing as a cast member in 2013. The former "Weekend Update" correspondent brings his signature brand of offbeat humor to the stage, along with a handful of beloved characters from his SNL days.

Joining Hader on stage is musical guest Hozier, the Irish singer-songwriter known for his soulful blend of rock and blues. Hozier's powerful voice and poetic lyrics are sure to provide a perfect complement to Hader's irreverent comedy.

The evening kicks off with a cold open that lampoons current events, as the SNL cast offers their unique perspective on the latest news stories. From there, Hader takes the stage for his monologue, trading jokes with the audience and offering a glimpse into what he's been up to since leaving SNL.

Next up is a series of sketches that showcase Hader's comedic range, from a game show parody to a bizarre beauty pageant. Throughout it all, Hader proves himself to be a master of physical comedy, using his elastic face and rubbery body to great effect.

One standout sketch sees Hader reprising his role as Stefon, the hyperactive club kid who always has the inside scoop on New York City nightlife. Hader's absurd stream-of-consciousness monologue has the audience and his castmates in stitches, as he rattles off a list of the city's hottest clubs and most bizarre characters.

But Hader is also able to dial it back for more nuanced performances, as in a sketch where he plays a grieving widower attending his wife's funeral. The sketch balances touching moments with dark humor, and Hader's performance anchors the emotional arc of the piece.

As always, the SNL cast is in top form, with standout performances from Kate McKinnon, Aidy Bryant, and Cecily Strong. Bryant excels in a sketch where she plays a high-strung customer service representative, while Strong shines as a clueless beauty pageant contestant. McKinnon also steals scenes as a kooky art teacher and an eccentric hotel employee.

Musical guest Hozier brings a haunting beauty to the SNL stage, performing a selection of songs from his repertoire. With his bluesy guitar riffs and soulful lyrics, Hozier's music is a fitting accompaniment to the show's irreverent humor.

Overall, the third episode of Saturday Night Live's 40th season is a sharp, witty, and wildly entertaining showcase for Bill Hader and the rest of the SNL cast. From the cold open to the final curtain call, it's a rollercoaster of laughs and surprises – and a testament to why SNL remains one of the most iconic sketch comedy shows on television.