Alec Baldwin returns to SNL following dropped manslaughter charges from Rust shooting

Alec Baldwin made his return to Saturday Night Live for the first time since the manslaughter charges related to the fatal "Rust" shooting were dropped.

The 17-time host appeared in the fourth episode of SNL's 50th anniversary season, portraying Fox News host Brett Baier in the show's cold open.

Baldwin’s face was the first thing shown on screen, prompting mixed reactions from the live audience, who seemed unsure whether to applaud or gasp.

The Schweddy Balls star took on the role of Baier, while SNL alum Maya Rudolph portrayed Vice President Kamala Harris.

Baldwin’s Baier continually interrupted Rudolph’s Harris, mirroring criticism that Baier was overly aggressive during the real-life interview by frequently cutting off the candidate’s responses.

Alec also joined in delivering the cold open’s iconic punchline: “Live from New York, it’s Saturday night!” marking the forty-fifth time he’s delivered the line, according to Saturday Night Network, placing him fifth all-time in that category.

Baldwin made one appearance on the show last season after stepping away from his role portraying Donald Trump, which was taken over by cast member James Austin Johnson following the tragic Rust shooting incident in 2021.

Saturday's episode was hosted by Michael Keaton of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, with Billie Eilish as the musical guest.

In July, the manslaughter charges against Baldwin were unexpectedly dismissed.

New Mexico Judge Mary Marlow Sommer criticized the prosecution for failing to disclose key evidence.

Baldwin had faced a potential 18-month prison sentence for the accidental shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.

He was accused of disregarding gun safety protocols when he fired a real gun that had been mistakenly loaded with live ammunition, resulting in Hutchins' death at age 42 and injuring director Joel Souza three years ago.

The 30 Rock actor was defended by attorney Alex Spiro, who is currently representing Mayor Adams in a federal corruption case.