Ep 18. Lindsay Lohan/Usher

In Saturday Night Live season 29 episode 18, actress Lindsay Lohan takes on the role of host alongside R&B superstar Usher as the musical guest. This marks Lohan's first time hosting the iconic sketch comedy show, and she appears game to take on whatever challenges the cast and crew throw her way.

The opening skit finds Lohan poking fun at her own wild child reputation, as she appears in a mock commercial for a rehab center catering to unruly celebrities. In classic SNL fashion, the commercial takes a few satirical jabs at Hollywood's addiction culture, and Lohan delivers her lines with a sly wink to the audience.

One of the standout sketches of the night is a spoof of MTV's "Pimp My Ride," in which Usher plays the host of a new show called "Pimp My Braces." Lohan appears as the awkward teenager in need of some dental bling, and she gamely jumps into the goofy premise with aplomb. The sketch features some fun cameos from SNL favorites, and Usher shows off some impressive comedic timing in his role as the brash host.

Another standout moment from the episode is Lohan's monologue, in which she jokes about her multiple rehab stints and brushes with the law. The bit is funny and self-aware, and shows that Lohan is willing to embrace her troubled past if it means getting some laughs.

In one sketch, Lohan teams up with cast member Fred Armisen for a send-up of classic Hollywood romance movies. Lohan's over-the-top acting and Armisen's deadpan delivery make for a hilarious pairing, and the sketch also features some clever nods to famous movie scenes of the past.

Usher gets plenty of screen time throughout the episode, performing two of his biggest hits and also appearing in several sketches. One particularly memorable bit finds the singer playing himself in a rather absurd commercial for a new type of breakfast cereal. Usher seems to be having a blast throughout his appearances on the show, and his enthusiasm is contagious.

The episode ends with a sweet and silly sketch in which Lohan and cast member Amy Poehler play sisters presenting a fake infomercial for their invention, "Baby Spanx." The sketch is a bit absurd, but Lohan and Poehler bring a lot of heart to their performances, and it's a nice note to end the show on.

Overall, Saturday Night Live season 29 episode 18 is a solid entry in the long-running series. Lohan proves to be a game and engaging host, and Usher is a natural fit for the show with his charismatic presence and comedic instincts. The sketches are hit-or-miss at times, but there are enough laughs to keep things entertaining throughout the episode.