Ariana Grande brought her signature humor and vocal talent to the latest episode of “Saturday Night Live,” showcasing her well-known impression of Celine Dion. The multi-talented artist not only hosted the episode but also starred in a pre-recorded sketch that playfully mocked Dion’s viral promo for Sunday Night Football, which aired during the recent matchup between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Dallas Cowboys.
In the sketch, Grande transformed into Dion, promoting the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) with a flourish. “It’s another sport whose timeless emotions ignite the bittersweet memories that live inside my soul. And… in the octagon,” she declared dramatically, capturing Dion’s distinctive style. The comedic highlight came when Grande launched into a parody of Dion’s iconic 1996 ballad, “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now.”
The reimagined lyrics humorously referenced the injuries commonly faced by UFC fighters, featuring lines like, “when I hit you like this, when you choke me like that.” This clever twist not only entertained viewers but also showcased Grande’s ability to blend her musical talents with comedy.
Last week, Celine Dion made waves with her own promo for Sunday Night Football, where she connected her classic song to both teams in a light-hearted manner. Grande’s tribute to Dion further emphasized her admiration for the legendary singer, having previously displayed her impression during memorable appearances on “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” in 2015 and in a “Carpool Karaoke” segment in 2018.
This episode marked Grande’s second time as host on “SNL.” Stevie Nicks, the celebrated Fleetwood Mac vocalist, served as the musical guest, adding to the night’s star-studded lineup. Grande first graced the “SNL” stage as a musical guest in 2014, returned in 2024, and showcased her versatility by hosting and performing in March 2016.
“Saturday Night Live” continues to captivate audiences with its blend of sketch comedy and musical performances, airing weekly on NBC at 11:30 p.m. ET/8:30 p.m. PT. The next episode is set to feature Michael Keaton as host, with Billie Eilish providing the musical entertainment.
Grande’s ability to seamlessly blend her singing prowess with comedic flair not only delights fans but also underscores her multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry. As she continues to honor icons like Celine Dion while carving out her unique path, audiences eagerly anticipate what she will bring to the stage next.