Ryan Gosling breaks character in SNL sketch after surprise last-minute changes

Ryan Gosling continued his tradition of breaking character on "Saturday Night Live" during his March 7 hosting gig, this time thanks to deliberate last-minute changes made by the show's writers.

The four-time host, known for struggling to keep a straight face in sketches, was set up to fail in a segment titled "Passing Notes." An onscreen disclaimer revealed that the contents of the notes being read by the cast had been altered since the final rehearsal, catching the performers off guard during the live broadcast.

Gosling managed to hold back laughter while reading a note about his character missing 133 layups in a row. However, he fully dissolved into giggles when confronted with a surprise reference to his Oscar-nominated role in "Barbie."

The note claimed that Gosling's principal had been spotted at a screening of the film, where he allegedly commented on his own character, Ken, by saying, "If I was still gay, I'd do him." After struggling to get through the line, Gosling exclaimed, "I refuse to apologize for being right."

The bit played directly into Gosling's reputation for laughing on stage, a topic he addressed earlier in the week during an appearance on "The Tonight Show." Gosling admitted he has frequently been told, "You laugh too much," comparing himself to frequent "SNL" laugher Jimmy Fallon.

While "SNL" creator Lorne Michaels generally prefers hosts to remain in character, the live audience responded enthusiastically to the unscripted moments, with fellow cast members also struggling to maintain their composure throughout the bit.