The latest episode of Saturday Night Live became a talking point for more than just its sketches, as host Melissa McCarthy's appearance prompted a wave of stunned reactions from viewers. The two-time Oscar nominee made her sixth appearance as host on the long-running NBC show this weekend, immediately drawing attention for her new look.
A Snowy Monologue and a Snatched Silhouette
McCarthy opened the show wearing a striking black velvet jumpsuit that featured bejewelled shoulders and a figure-hugging fit. Her monologue took a festive turn when she asked the stage crew for some "Christmas magic" in the form of snow. Her request was granted with overwhelming enthusiasm, as a huge faux snowstorm toppled her. "Okay, that was way too much!" she exclaimed, before carrying on with the show.
On social media platform X, the focus quickly shifted to McCarthy's apparent transformation. One viewer wrote, "Melissa McCarthy! Oh my!! I’ve had a crush on her forever. I had no idea she had lost this much weight. Still crushing!" Another added, "So Glad to see Melissa McCarthy Back on the SNL Stage, and She Looks Fabulous." The compliments continued, with a third fan noting she was "literally snatched for this monologue."
Past Comments and a Public Exchange
The online discussion inevitably recalled a high-profile incident from earlier this year involving legendary singer Barbra Streisand. Streisand faced backlash after commenting on a photo of McCarthy on Instagram to ask if she was using the weight-loss drug Ozempic. McCarthy later addressed the comment on Instagram, defending Streisand and focusing on the positive. "The takeaway — Barbra Streisand knows I exist? She reached out to me. And she thought I looked good. I win the day," she wrote.
Streisand issued a clarification, stating her intention was purely complimentary. "She looked fantastic! I just wanted to pay her a compliment. I forgot the world is reading!" she explained. McCarthy has historically been open about her philosophy towards body image and weight loss. In a 2015 interview with CBS Mornings, she shared her decision to stop fixating on the issue. "I finally said [to myself], 'Oh, for God's sake, stop worrying about it,' and it may be the best thing I've ever done," she revealed.
SNL's 2025 Finale Line-Up
With McCarthy's episode now aired, Saturday Night Live has two shows remaining in 2025. Josh O'Connor, star of the upcoming Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, will make his hosting debut on 13 December, with musical guest Lily Allen. The year will then close on 20 December with host Ariana Grande and a highly anticipated musical performance from Cher, marking her first appearance on the show since 1987.
The show's 51st season has already featured a diverse roster of hosts, including Bad Bunny, Amy Poehler, and Glen Powell. McCarthy's latest hosting turn, however, has proven memorable not just for comedy, but for the conversation it ignited about public perception and personal journey.
