Even when it’s at its best, modern SNL is rarely shocking. Funny, strange, silly and clever, sure. But shocking? Nah. The show doesn’t seem to set out to offend every week. So when the show broke out a fake commercial that depicted 50 Shades of Grey star and guest host Dakota Johnson joining the radical terrorist group ISIS, jaws rightfully hit the ground. Who approved this? And could they start approving more sketches?
With Dakota Johnson guest hosting, last night’s SNL had no shortage of 50 Shades of Grey jokes. For her part, Johnson seemed equally bemused and embarrassed by her controversial new hit, rolling with whatever the show threw at her and always coming out looking far better than her naysayers expected. Her ability to make fun of herself and the film that has turned her into an overnight movie star really came together in the only sketch of the night that required her to play herself.
Dakota Johnson truly impressed in Fifty Shades of Grey, bringing genuine humor and personality to a character who was entirely humorless and lifeless on the page. But can her likability and seemingly effortless talents translate to a solid hosting stint on SNL? Read on for this week's SNL sketches ranked from the greatest to the not-so-great.
Their words, not mine.
(Warning: This clip has some sexual language and innuendos, etc. Play at your own risk.)
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The upcoming 'Fifty Shades of Grey' feature might not be everyone's cup of sexy tea, but leading lady Dakota Johnson would like to at least attempt to change the minds of potential viewers who don't think that anything—yes, anything—can be sexy with the right attitude. On last night's 'Tonight Show,' Johnson was tasked with reading off a series of decidedly unsexy lines, including stuff about Chapstick (?) and sweatpants (?) in an attempt to make them alluring.