Colin Jost, a comedian, writer, and actor is also famously known as co-anchor of “Weekend Update” on Saturday Night Live . He is known for his delivery in satire and writing style making him unique within the format. His viewpoints along with comedic presentation make him a well-known personality.
"Weekend Update" on Saturday Night Live
“Weekend Update” is a long running sketch on SNL. The current iteration includes Colin Jost and Michael Che and together they deliver a witty perspective of news and social events . The series is designed to present different areas in an offbeat yet intriguing style of sketch comedy with news reporting as its focus.
Jost's Role in the Segment
Colin Jost delivers punchy commentary through a very distinctive style of dry humor and writing. He often addresses politics and various social issues making him very topical with a variety of different styles. Through satire he shows both light-hearted and intense issues and is shown as a core part of SNL's overall structure.
Partnering With Michael Che
The pairing of Colin Jost and Michael Che bring different energies to the segment which creates engaging dialog. As their views diverge they allow different perspectives that keep viewership as each offers individual styles and wit. They work well together but often create a different style of commentary making it a very enjoyable mix.
Standout Segments in January 2025
The first “Weekend Update” segment of 2025 included a variety of topics and commentary that included: political figures, Donald Trump and data privacy debates. In addition many other SNL cast members had individual spots during the same sketch.
Poking Fun at Donald Trump
Jost and Che brought a critique of Donald Trump using satire and sarcasm. These skits pointed to his inauguration and his release of official portraits, along with highlighting past events such as the January 6 incident. There were remarks made that his portrait seemed to have been lit from “hell”. They did make light with how it mirrored a past mug shot along with a parental advisory sign.
TikTok and Social Media Commentary
Michael Longfellow a SNL cast member delivered a view about the new Tik Tok ban showcasing differing points of view along with the growing issues of data privacy. The debate took lighthearted approaches that brought elements of comedy and pointed out issues. The points on having different views allows audiences to have new takes on modern day concerns regarding data privacy.
Sarah Sherman as Nosferatu
Sarah Sherman's creative portrayal of the original Nosferatu from 1922 commenting on its modern day remake was a unique twist in humor. With her physical commitment to the character which was added with black and white imagery Sherman added a new element. During the sketch her persona is set against Colin Jost which creates great dynamic to add tension and humorous dialog.
Humorous Personal Remarks
In previous sketches, Jost and Che have been noted to poke fun at each other, with Jost using past sketches to poke at his wife Scarlett Johansson and he has read jokes from Che as well that poke at his persona. With some jokes being more light and funny while others offer an extreme point of view using sarcasm. It makes viewers aware that both men have an area for all styles of humor within the delivery.
The Wife and New Father Digs
With remarks like the fact his wife was just “40” making his age closer or a comment of the kid they share and that he is "black as hell" show he is able to create relatable moments with current cultural changes to his family life. Other jokes about Costco and his wife were a unique take that made it seem unscripted but perfectly aligned with his delivery. It showcased that while the sketch is topical it can also bring personal narratives to the screen.
Evolution and Continuity
“Weekend Update” is not only a staple of the series but also the pairing of Jost and Che has gained its own following of viewers as a well know SNL moment for all types of individuals. The ability to remain relevant throughout so many changes over the years has continued with the use of topical events to draw the viewers in.
Satirical Delivery and Timing
Using political commentary and new social moments as material the two hosts showcase how different jokes and angles work to generate high quality programming. Each element from character delivery, script selection, to the use of real life instances all go to showcase a method to elevate each moment. It demonstrates their ability to maintain structure but offer the right type of information delivery as they present it.
Key Takeaways
- Colin Jost is known for co anchoring SNL’s Weekend Update while displaying dry humor and also social commentary skills.
- The pairing of Colin and Che offers different perspectives on topics adding dynamic points to each broadcast.
- They covered Donald Trump's new portraits, new Tik Tok restrictions while offering personal details for comedic value.
- Other SNL actors have special segments within “Weekend Update” that further the dynamic of a well planned structure.
- Jost demonstrates his continued growth with unique style and viewpoints that is able to adapt through current events and trending material.