SNL nostalgia: The unforgettable 'Cruz Street' and Taylor Swift’s serenade in the 2021 episode

It's fascinating to look back at some of the sketches that have left an indelible mark on the comedic landscape of Saturday Night Live (SNL). Revisiting the episode aired on November 14, 2021, we find a mixed bag of politically charged comedy, innovative celebrity features, and parodies that continue to shape SNL’s legacy in 2023.

In the much-discussed 'Cruz Street', Saturday Night Live took an unabashed swing at famous right-wing figures, transforming them into a satirical Sesame Street. The parody had Texas Senator Ted Cruz and his conservative colleagues, including Marjorie Taylor Greene and Joe Rogan, discussing controversial topics from vaccination mandates to the American President's social safety net bill.

The episode featured 'The Harder They Fall' star Jonathan Majors as the host, marking his inaugural SNL appearance. The actor's monologue, though not uproarious, offered a peek into his struggles as an actor, peppered with some humorous Red Lobster references.

An impressive parody of the History Channel's show 'Forgotten Monarchs' saw Majors play a conniving prince. At the same time, in 'Man Park', he was part of a commercial showcasing a park dedicated to 'guys in relationships' and their peculiar love for Marvel, sports, and IPAs.

Taylor Swift, a musical guest who also participated in a sketch that mocked three dejected virgins, graced the episode. Swift's performance of her single "All Too Well" and the subsequent nod on Weekend Update by Colin Jost, who made a funny remark about her penchant for singing about exes, added layers to the episode.

For the newcomers, the episode offered a chance to shine. Sarah Sherman made the most of her first real showcase on SNL, bringing eccentric energy to the proceedings. Aristotle Athari, another new addition, played an AI-driven robot, 'Laughintosh 3000' programmed to create stand-up comedy, giving a high-concept performance despite a few glitches.

In retrospect, this SNL episode has proved a stepping stone for the cast members while shaping the show’s comedic trajectory over time.