NEW YORK — Comedian Druski took the stage at "Saturday Night Live" this weekend as the first digital creator to host the long-running NBC sketch series, a milestone that media outlets said reflects the changing relationships among social media, television and the entertainment industry.
Yahoo described the appearance as a first for the program, noting in a pre-broadcast profile that Druski is the first digital creator to host the show. The profile, titled "Who is Druski?", introduced the comedian to viewers who may know him primarily through online video.
Variety reported that actress Emma Stone interrupted Druski's opening monologue, an appearance the outlet characterized as an "ambush."
Deadline reported that the episode included a sketch titled "Dru Can See Everything," in which Druski portrayed former Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes in whiteface.
Slate Magazine published commentary arguing that the booking "says a lot about the state of Hollywood." The piece framed the episode as evidence of the growing influence of online creators in mainstream entertainment.
"Saturday Night Live" has historically drawn hosts from film, television, music and sports. The selection of a creator whose career developed largely on social platforms points to a broader trend in which established media companies look to online talent to reach audiences.
This report is based on coverage from Slate Magazine, Deadline, Yahoo and Variety.
Sources: Slate Magazine
