Michael Keaton’s Halloween homecoming on SNL

Set the scene: Saturday Night Live, Studio 8H. The legendary Michael Keaton returned to the iconic stage, marking his fourth gig as host. This time, it was all about celebrating a significant milestone – the 50th season of SNL. Keaton commenced the evening with a blend of nostalgia and humor, reminiscing about his first stint on the show back in 1982.

A trip down memory lane

Keaton’s career has spanned decades, but he didn’t start in Hollywood glamor. He shared a nugget from his early days, working as a Production Assistant on Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. “In the ’70s, you know, SNL and Mister Rogers have a lot more similarities than you would think. Lots of puppets. Tons of cocaine,” he quipped, playfully contrasting the wholesome image of Fred Rogers with the wild reputation of SNL. Keaton lauded Rogers, confirming, “He was everything you’d think he was.”

The return of Beetlejuice

As Halloween approaches, Keaton’s versatility shines as he revisits one of his most iconic roles. He dove into a bit about the newly released Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, a film revisiting his beloved 1988 character. “With Halloween coming up, I know I’m going to see a lot of those little kids out there dressed as Beetlejuice, which is adorable,” he remarked. He humorously added that adults, particularly men in their 40s, also don the Beetlejuice costume, a sight Keaton finds “less adorable.”

The Beetlejuice gang

In true SNL fashion, the evening saw contributions from fellow cast members. Mikey Day strutted onto the stage, donning his own Beetlejuice getup—complete with green hair and a striped suit. Day gushed, “Look, can I call you Mike? I love Beetlejuice, it’s my favorite. Can you do me a favor and say, ‘It’s showtime?’”

Keaton, with characteristic modesty, replied, “To be honest, I don’t even remember how I said it.” Enter SNL alumnus Andy Samberg, also clad as Beetlejuice. “Well, uh, I do,” Samberg chimed in with a playful grin.

Unexpected humor and old friends

Samberg continued the comedy routine, referencing his days on the show. “Mike, here’s the thing, I used to work here. And during my storied tenure, I tried and failed many times to get my BJ into the show.” Keaton responded with a well-timed correction, “Please don’t say BJ, just called him Beetlejuice,” while Samberg humorously warned, “Don’t say the name! Three times and I’m gone.”

The Beetlejuice motif extended further when cast member Sarah Sherman, in a seemingly Beetlejuice-inspired striped dress, entered the run.

“I see Sherman lurking in the wings … we don’t have time for another Beetlejuice,” Keaton observed. Unfazed, Sherman quipped, “Oh no, thank you so much. This is just how I dress.”

Is there a sequel in the house?

Keaton’s observation, “You guys are quoting a lot of lines from the first movie,” prompted the natural follow-up, “Did you see the second?” Day, Samberg, and Sherman humorously admitted, “Not yet, it’s on the list,” encouraging Keaton to reprise the classic Beetlejuice catchphrase.

caving into audience anticipation, Keaton summoned the spirit of Beetlejuice one last time for the evening, declaring, “We got a great show for you tonight!” and pointing out the musical guest, Billie Eilish.

Final thoughts

Michael Keaton’s return to SNL was a compelling mix of nostalgia, humor, and engagement with the audience. His presence and the playful incorporation of his Beetlejuice persona enlivened the stage, reminding everyone why he’s a beloved figure in both cinema and live television. The synergy between Keaton, the cast, and the audience underscored why Saturday Night Live remains an enduring beacon of comedic brilliance.

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