Chris Rock hosts SNL, jokes about Biden’s Hunter pardon and reflects on career highlights

Chris Rock hosted SNL, delivering a sharp monologue on Hunter Biden's pardon.

Chris Rock made a triumphant return to Saturday Night Live on December 14, marking his fourth stint as host. During his anticipated monologue, the renowned comedian addressed President Joe Biden’s controversial pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, injecting his signature wit into political commentary.

Rock quipped, “Joe doesn’t move as fast or talk as fast as he used to, but that middle finger still works,” drawing laughs from the Studio 8H audience. He also defended Biden's action, humorously suggesting every parent would pardon their child—except, perhaps, the parents of the Menendez Brothers.

Despite touching on current political issues, Rock avoided revisiting the 2022 Oscars incident, when Will Smith slapped him live on stage. Instead, he focused on broader social satire and humor, leaving the infamous event unmentioned.

The South Carolina-born comic began his career on SNL as a featured player from 1990 to 1993, working alongside comedy legends like Adam Sandler and Chris Farley. Since then, he’s become a global stand-up icon, releasing specials such as Bring the Pain and Never Scared. He has also directed films like I Think I Love My Wife and Top Five.

Returning to the very stage that launched his career, Rock offered fans a nostalgic blend of humor, cultural critique, and personal reflections. His stint reinforced his status as one of the most influential comedians of his time, blending sharp political insights with a timeless comic appeal.