Adam Driver, renowned for his roles in Star Wars and Marriage Story, graced the Saturday Night Live stage for the fourth time on December 9, 2023, presenting one of the most unforgettable sketches of the season.
In a parody inspired by the reality show The First 48, Driver portrayed a baby suspected of a murder case during its inaugural flight.
This sketch humorously targeted Meghan Markle, the former royal who has faced allegations of feigning her pregnancy and utilizing a surrogate for her son Archie.
The skit kicked off with a voiceover emphasizing the critical nature of the initial 48 hours in any homicide inquiry, noting that 95% of cases are typically resolved within that timeframe.
The scene transitioned to an airplane setting, where two detectives, embodied by Kenan Thompson and Eggo Wodom, were interrogating passengers regarding a deceased individual discovered in the restroom.
They engaged a couple, depicted by Beck Bennett and Cecily Strong, cradling a baby, portrayed by Driver, in a carrier.
Upon questioning the couple about any suspicious observations, they denied witnessing anything untoward.
Subsequently, the detectives inquired about their baby, identified as Archie.
Notably, the detectives discerned the baby’s unusually large and hairy appearance, prompting doubts about his age.
Despite the couple asserting the baby was six months old, skepticism persisted.
Requesting to inspect the baby’s passport, the couple proffered a counterfeit document featuring Driver’s visage and the moniker Archie Harrison Mountbatten Windsor.
Unveiling the ruse, the detectives uncovered that the purported baby was, in fact, a grown man in disguise—Driver himself.
Accusing the couple of imposture and smuggling contraband, the detectives instructed them to reveal the truth.
Reluctantly complying, the couple unmasked Driver, clad in a diaper and bonnet, brandishing a knife.
Confessing to the crime, Driver attributed his actions to a momentary lapse in judgment triggered by a peanut-related altercation.
Expressing remorse for his actions, Driver, in character, sought solace in playtime, requesting a diaper change from the baffled detectives.
Subsequently detained and escorted off the plane, Driver, in a poignant moment, professed a desire for his “mommy,” referencing Meghan Markle as his purported mother.
He disclosed being hired by Markle to impersonate her child, emphasizing financial compensation and his unfamiliarity with his alleged father, Prince Harry.
Concluding with a satirical twist, the sketch humorously detailed the resolution of the case, sentencing the “baby” to life imprisonment while deporting the couple to Canada.
The whereabouts of Meghan Markle remained a mystery, underscored by a comical image portraying her cradling Driver in infantile guise.
The skit not only lampooned Markle but also showcased Driver’s comedic prowess, embodying a murderous baby persona with remarkable finesse and camaraderie with fellow cast members.
Through this uproarious portrayal, Driver reaffirmed his status as an exceptional SNL host, adept at humorously dissecting societal figures and even himself.
The sketch’s blend of satire, wit, and stellar performances underscored Driver’s versatility and comedic timing, solidifying his standing as one of SNL’s standout hosts.