Culture

Eddie Murphy Delivers Highest ‘Saturday Night Live’ Ratings in Years

Source: Youtube/NBC

Yet another milestone for the comedy icon.

In a reveal that should surprise no one at all, Eddie Murphy‘s return to Saturday Night Live drew the program’s highest ratings in more than two years. According to “fast official” numbers ordered by NBC, Murphy’s comeback episode attracted 9.92 million viewers, the most since a 2017 episode hosted by Melissa McCarthy.

WATCH: Eddie Murphy Reveals Keenen Ivory Wayans Destroyed His Iconic Delirious Suit

Following a 35-years hiatus from the late-night institution, which he’s been widely (and rightfully) credited for saving in the ’80s, Murphy’s reemergence on the show garnered more than just civilian eyes. Fellow alum and legendary standups flooded the roster for a chance to welcome Murphy home. The episode featured surprise appearances from Dave Chappelle, Chris Rock, Tracy Morgan, Maya Rudolph, Larry David, Fred Armisen, and Rachel Dratch, along with musical guest Lizzo, who tipped a hat to delta blues foremother, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, in her first performance.

You can watch Eddie Murphy’s opening monologue below. Head over to Hulu for the full replay.

zo

Zo is a staff writer at Okayplayer where he covers music.

Share
Published by
zo

Recent Posts

Reparations for Black Californians Could Cost $800 Billion

Reparations for Black residents of California could cost the state $800 billion, says California's reparations… Read More

March 29, 2023

Ms. Lauryn Hill, Megan Thee Stallion to Headline Essence Festival

The 2023 edition of Essence Festival of Culture will include performers Ms. Lauryn Hill, Megan… Read More

March 29, 2023

What To Do In NYC This Weekend

A rundown of NYC events happening this weekend, including the return of Smorgasburg, a live… Read More

March 29, 2023

Protesters Clash With Universal Hip Hop Museum Over Alleged Ties to Afrika Bambaataa

Hip-Hop Stands With Survivors is protesting against Universal Hip Hop Museum's Rocky Bucano for his… Read More

March 29, 2023

How Charlese Antoinette Jones Became Black Hollywood’s Go-To Costume Designer

Charlese Antoinette Jones has worked on the Academy Award-winning film Judas and the Black Messiah… Read More

March 29, 2023

Madlib is Finishing the Long-Delayed ‘Madvillainy’ Sequel

During a Hot 97 visit, Madlib revealed that he is in the process of completing… Read More

March 29, 2023