In the first Weekend Update of 2025, Colin Jost and Michael Che brought their sharp wit to bear on a range of current events. Hosted by Dave Chappelle and featuring GloRilla as the musical guest, the show delved into topics such as Donald Trump’s inauguration portrait, the TikTok ban, and the new Nosferatu remake. The duo’s humor was both biting and entertaining, addressing serious issues with a comedic twist that left the audience laughing yet contemplative.
The segment also highlighted other notable moments, including Sarah Sherman’s portrayal of Nosferatu from the 1922 film, offering a humorous take on Robert Eggers’ modern adaptation. Additionally, Michael Longfellow provided comic relief with his commentary on the TikTok ban, questioning the rationale behind it and poking fun at his own social media habits. Overall, the episode set the tone for what promises to be an eventful year in politics and entertainment.
Trump's Inauguration and Social Media Scrutiny
Jost and Che wasted no time in tackling the latest developments surrounding former President Donald Trump. They began by lampooning Trump’s official inaugural portrait, which has sparked comparisons to his mugshot from 2023. Jost remarked on the eerie lighting, suggesting it was illuminated by “hell opening up.” Che added a layer of sarcasm by noting how Trump’s inauguration ceremony moved indoors due to cold temperatures, drawing parallels to the Capitol insurrection on January 6, 2021. The comedians cleverly juxtaposed these events, highlighting the irony and absurdity of recent political occurrences.
Expanding on this theme, Che made light of the fact that Trump’s inauguration coincides with Martin Luther King Jr. Day. He quipped that if Dr. King were alive today, Trump might mistake him for Ben Carson, a former political rival. This comment not only poked fun at Trump’s recognition skills but also subtly critiqued the stark contrast between the two figures. The comedians deftly navigated sensitive topics, using humor to address serious issues without losing their comedic edge. Their remarks underscored the ongoing scrutiny of Trump’s actions and legacy, while also providing much-needed levity.
TikTok Ban and Nosferatu Remake Commentary
The Weekend Update also addressed the controversial TikTok ban, with Michael Longfellow taking center stage. Longfellow questioned the legitimacy of banning the app solely because it is Chinese, humorously pointing out that even Jesus Christ could be considered Chinese according to a viral TikTok. He playfully dismissed concerns over data privacy, joking that China already knows his preferences. Longfellow also shared a personal anecdote about being diagnosed with ADHD via a TikTok quiz, adding a relatable and humorous touch to the discussion. His commentary injected a dose of absurdity into the debate, challenging viewers to think critically about the implications of the ban.
Another highlight was Sarah Sherman’s portrayal of the original Nosferatu character from the 1922 film. Sherman’s deadpan delivery as she reviewed the new Nosferatu remake added a unique twist to the segment. She initially claimed to dislike the film but then admitted she enjoyed it, expressing a desire for an audition. Jost engaged in a playful back-and-forth with Sherman’s Nosferatu, exploring themes of jealousy and nostalgia. The black-and-white filter and haunting piano chords during these exchanges enhanced the eerie atmosphere, creating a memorable moment that blended horror with humor. This segment showcased SNL’s ability to blend classic film references with contemporary comedy, delivering a fresh and engaging experience for viewers.
Travis Kelce, the 35-year-old tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, continues to showcase his dedication to his girlfriend, Taylor Swift, during a significant playoff win against the Houston Texans. In a postgame interview, when asked if he felt like he was 25 again, Kelce charmingly referenced Swift's hit song "22," emphasizing his youthful vigor and deep connection with the singer. This is not the first time Kelce has paid homage to Swift's music; earlier in the month, he made a similar reference on a sports show. Adding to the special moments, Kelce presented Swift with a "22" hat at a party celebrating the end of her record-breaking tour. The eventful day also saw Swift attending the game in a stunning Chanel outfit, joining Kelce's family in cheering for the team.
Kelce's playful nod to Swift's music reflects their growing bond. During an interview after the provisional playoff match on January 18th, Kelce was asked about his age-related feelings. Instead of giving a straightforward answer, he cleverly responded by referencing Swift's song "22." This gesture highlighted not only his energetic performance on the field but also his personal life. Earlier this month, Kelce had already made headlines with a similar comment on a popular sports podcast, where he joked about feeling as young as 22. The couple's relationship has been marked by such meaningful gestures, including Kelce surprising Swift with a "22" hat at a celebratory gathering following her successful tour.
The January 18th game at Arrowhead Stadium was more than just a sporting event; it was a celebration of love and success. Swift arrived in a glamorous Chanel ensemble, adding a touch of star power to the occasion. She was seen interacting enthusiastically with fans outside the stadium, expressing her excitement for the upcoming match. Swift's presence was felt throughout the game, especially when she hugged basketball star Caitlin Clark and cheered with Travis's father after a pivotal touchdown in the fourth quarter. Her support extended beyond the sidelines, as she celebrated every moment with the players and fans alike.
Kelce's fashion choices also added flair to the event. He stepped into the stadium wearing a pink suede Bottega Veneta shirt over a white T-shirt, paired with navy-and-white cargo pants and a colorful Supreme beanie. His attire, complemented by pink Timberlands, showcased his unique style. Throughout the game, Kelce's performance and Swift's unwavering support created unforgettable moments for everyone present. The couple's shared enthusiasm and public displays of affection have endeared them to fans and the media alike.
The Chiefs' playoff victory became a memorable chapter for both the team and the couple. Kelce's heartfelt references to Swift's music and their public interactions have highlighted the strength of their relationship. Swift's attendance at the game, along with her family's support, underscored the importance of these moments in their lives. Together, they continue to create stories that resonate with fans around the world, blending sports and music into a harmonious celebration of love and achievement.
In a surprising turn of events, TikTok abruptly ceased operations in the United States on January 18th, just hours before the official ban was set to take effect. The sudden shutdown left many users scrambling to save their content and cope with the loss of this popular social media platform. While some expressed frustration, others found humor in the situation, turning to other platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to share jokes and memes. The shutdown came after a Supreme Court ruling upheld a law that required TikTok to divest from Chinese ownership or cease operations in the U.S. Despite the upheaval, discussions about potential extensions have begun, adding an uncertain twist to the narrative.
Details of the TikTok Shutdown and User Reactions
In the heart of winter, TikTok users across the United States faced an unexpected interruption when the platform went dark on January 18th. Just hours before the legal ban was scheduled to go into effect, users were met with a message stating that TikTok was no longer available due to new legislation. Many were caught off guard, unable to finish saving their videos or even complete a session. The message read: "Sorry, TikTok isn’t available right now. A law banning TikTok has been enacted in the U.S., meaning you can’t use TikTok for now."
The abrupt departure of TikTok sparked a wave of reactions online. Some users turned to humor, likening the shutdown to an "Irish goodbye" or comparing it to the seasonal disappearance of a Spirit Halloween store. Others vented their frustrations on X, where they shared memes and GIFs reflecting their dismay. One user joked about feeling chills at the silence in their home, while another quipped that TikTok had done an "early Irish goodbye." The ban also prompted comparisons to Nickelodeon’s Worldwide Day of Play, an annual event encouraging kids to step away from screens.
Internationally, TikTok users outside the U.S. couldn't help but poke fun at the situation, with one user sharing a clip of countries gossiping about the American ban. Meanwhile, some Americans offered up other platforms in jest, suggesting the government take Facebook or Instagram instead. Not everyone was upset, however; a few users admitted to not being affected by the shutdown, sharing lighthearted memes to reflect their indifference.
Amidst the chaos, former President Donald Trump hinted at the possibility of a 90-day extension during an interview, adding another layer of uncertainty to the future of TikTok in the U.S.
From a journalist's perspective, the TikTok shutdown serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between technology and policy. It highlights how quickly digital landscapes can change and the impact such changes have on daily life. The humorous responses from users underscore a resilience in the face of disruption, showing that even in moments of frustration, people find ways to connect and laugh together. Ultimately, this event invites us to reflect on our reliance on social media and consider what alternatives might emerge in its absence.