Saturday Night Live Season 34 Episode 18 Tracy Morgan/Kelly Clarkson

Tracy Morgan returns to Saturday Night Live to host season 34 episode 18 alongside musical guest Kelly Clarkson. Fans of the show will be excited to see the comedian back on the iconic stage after his successful career on 30 Rock.

The episode kicks off with the cold open, where the cast parodies President Obama's new healthcare bill. Andy Samberg's impression of Rahm Emanuel hits a high note, and Kristen Wiig tackles the role of Nancy Pelosi with her signature wit. The skit sets the tone for a politically charged episode, as several subsequent sketches revolve around hot-topic issues such as gay marriage and the housing crisis.

Tracy Morgan's opening monologue doesn't disappoint, as he dives right in with a controversial bit about race relations. The crowd gasps at first, but quickly warms up to Morgan's high-energy delivery and self-deprecating humor. He segues into a quick shout-out to his 30 Rock co-stars, and even throws in an update on his health following a tragic car accident in 2014.

The first sketch of the night is a hilarious game show spoof dubbed "Drunk Uncle". Bobby Moynihan stars as the titular character, slurring his way through phrases like "back in my day" and "they don't make 'em like they used to". Tracy Morgan plays the host, and his chemistry with Moynihan is palpable. The skit ends with Moynihan falling off his stool, sending the audience into a fit of laughter.

Another standout sketch is a commercial parody mocking the absurdity of pharmaceutical ads. Vanessa Bayer stars in the spot, which advertises a fictional medication called "It's not Lilith's fault". The supposed side effects include "leaky butt" and "having Lilith's voice in your head", leaving the audience in stitches.

The episode also offers up some memorable Weekend Update moments. Seth Meyers and Amy Poehler tackle the aforementioned issue of gay marriage, with Meyers offering a sharp commentary on the legality of same-sex unions. Poehler brings her trademark wit to the segment, taking jabs at anti-gay activists. The pair also discuss the ongoing recession, with Meyers providing a thought-provoking analysis of the state of the economy.

One of the final sketches of the night sees Tracy Morgan doing what he does best: impressions. He nails his rendition of Star Jones, complete with the diva's trademark nasally voice and brassy demeanor. The sketch turns into a spoof of The View, with cast members playing various other hosts of the talk show. The result is a riotous and irreverent take on daytime television.

Kelly Clarkson's musical performances are, as always, top-notch. She belts out her hits "My Life Would Suck Without You" and "I Do Not Hook Up", both of which receive thunderous applause from the audience. Clarkson also shows off her comedic chops in a hilarious sketch about a group of interns working at an animal rehab center.

Overall, season 34 episode 18 delivers everything fans have come to love about Saturday Night Live: topical humor, memorable sketches, and a star-studded guest lineup. Tracy Morgan's return to the show is a triumphant one, and Kelly Clarkson proves why she's one of the most dynamic performers in the music industry today.