Jack Black is humorously navigating a mix of excitement and anxiety as he prepares to return to the “Saturday Night Live” stage after nearly two decades. “Just you know, having lots of nightmares and night terrors and also fond memories flooding back,” Black, 55, quipped to Variety on March 30. The actor and comedian will host the NBC variety show on Saturday, April 5, with Elton John and Brandi Carlile as the musical guests.
The upcoming episode marks Black’s first hosting gig on the iconic comedy show since December 17, 2005, when he was promoting “King Kong.” This time, he’s promoting “A Minecraft Movie,” based on the popular video game. Directed by Jared Hess, the movie will hit theaters on April 4, featuring Black’s character, Steve, who teams up with an eclectic group of misfits, including Jason Momoa, Emma Myers, Danielle Brooks, and Sebastian Hansen, in a world of crafting and adventure.
As for the Saturday Night Live sketches, Black expressed uncertainty. “You know what they’re thinking about right now? They are just all in a dead coma from last night’s show,” he joked about the show’s cast and writers. “Maybe some of them are thinking of some ideas, but I’m really thinking it’s one of those shows they put together in one week, that’s part of the excitement.”
Black, who holds deep admiration for the current Saturday Night Live cast, feels a sense of camaraderie despite the generational gap. “I love all those kids,” he said, naming familiar faces like Colin Jost, Chloe Fineman, and Marcello Hernandez. “I call them kids because I was on that show before some of them were born — except for Kenan [Thompson], we’re around the same age,” Black noted, reflecting on his long-standing connection to the show.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Black discussed the themes behind “A Minecraft Movie,” which carries a message of unity amidst chaos. “What the world needs now is love, sweet love,” he emphasized, referencing the 1965 hit track. “We’ve got to work together, my God. There’s so much violence and war and hatred. And that’s what I love about this movie — there’s a lot of love in it and there’s a lot of creativity. There is some anger and violence too, but in the end it’s about friendship and working together to make [the world] a better place.”
Black praised the creative vision of director Jared Hess, saying, “Jared is such a force of creativity and has such a unique perspective.” He also expressed admiration for his fellow cast members. “This cast was amazing, top to bottom. You’ve got Jason Momoa, worth the price of admission; Danielle Brooks, who is fantastic; Emma Myers, she’s fantastic. You’ve got this new kid [Hansen], who is a genius. But then wild card! You didn’t know you’re gonna get Jennifer Coolidge?”
The anticipation of Black’s return to “Saturday Night Live” is abuzz, promising a memorable night that merges his signature humor with an array of comedic sketches. As fans await the show, Black’s blend of comedic prowess and genuine enthusiasm ensures a captivating performance that will undoubtedly resonate with audiences both young and old.
