‘SNL’ Delivers Fun with Taylor Swift and Domingo in Cold Open

Saturday Night Live kicked off its latest episode with a vibrant cold open featuring host and musical guest Sabrina Carpenter. This segment marked the show’s fourth installment centered around the character Domingo, played by Marcello Hernández. In a lively musical medley, the sketch explored themes of friendship and unexpected romantic entanglements.

The scene opened with a celebration for Matt’s 30th birthday, portrayed by Andrew Dismukes. His wife, Kelsey, played by Chloe Fineman, was joined by friends—including Carpenter herself, Sarah Sherman, Ashley Padilla, and newcomer Veronika Slowikowska—to serenade the birthday boy. The group began by performing a song inspired by their recent trip to Nashville, set to the tune of Taylor Swift’s “The Fate of Ophelia” from her latest album, The Life of a Showgirl. Notably, Carpenter is featured on another track from the album, the titular “The Life of a Showgirl.”

As the sketch unfolded, the humor took a twist when it was revealed that Domingo had also been in Nashville. Undeterred, the quartet shifted to a second song using Lady Gaga’s “Abracadabra,” which humorously focused on Domingo, described as “the man with a goatee and a gold chain.” Just when Kelsey reassured Matt that Domingo was in the past, Hernández’s character made a dramatic entrance to perform a cover of Alex Warren’s “Ordinary.”

In a playful exchange, Domingo serenaded Kelsey with suggestive lyrics, including lines about their time in Nashville, which left Matt visibly exasperated. He concluded the sketch with a frustrated remark to Kelsey, stating, “I’m serious, this is strike six.” Kelsey, attempting to ease the tension, replied reassuringly, “Hey babe, it won’t happen again.”

This sketch not only highlighted the comedic chemistry among the cast but also marked Hernández’s fourth appearance as Domingo since the character was introduced last October. The debut sketch featured Ariana Grande covering Carpenter’s song “Espresso,” with the character’s popularity continuing to grow. Earlier this year, Carpenter reprised her role in a special sketch for the show’s 50th Anniversary, which also included cameos from stars like Martin Short, Molly Shannon, Pedro Pascal, and Bad Bunny.

In both the recent and previous Domingo sketches, musical themes played a significant role, including performances of “Defying Gravity” from Wicked and “You Belong With Me” by Swift, showcasing the show’s knack for blending humor with memorable music. As Saturday Night Live continues to innovate and entertain, its unique blend of comedy and musical performances remains a highlight for audiences.