A Night to Remember: Josh O’Connor’s Memorable SNL Monologue and Sketch
During the December 13, 2025, episode of Saturday Night Live (SNL), host Josh O’Connor brought a unique charm to the sketch comedy stage, jokingly referring to himself as a “soft boy.” This playful self-deprecation set the tone for a night filled with humor and unexpected twists, culminating in the standout sketch, “Bachelorette Party Strippers.”
The Monologue Kickoff
O’Connor’s monologue was engaging from the start, showcasing not just his comedic skills but also his deep connection with contemporary culture. He acknowledged his reputation, presenting a candid, light-hearted view of masculinity that resonated with the audience. With a charming smile and a twinkle in his eye, he referenced his own role as a softer kind of male archetype, preparing viewers for the absurdity that was about to ensue.
“Bachelorette Party Strippers” Sketch
In the sketch that followed, O’Connor collaborated with featured player Ben Marshall, who together portrayed two of the most unconventional strippers to ever hit the SNL stage. Set against the backdrop of a bachelorette party, this sketch flipped the traditional expectations of such entertainers. Gone were the conventional tropes; in their place were strippers who showed up with tote bags and well-thumbed novels.
The premise began with the bride-to-be, played by Ashley Padilla, expressing her desire for a “chill” time with her friends instead of traditional raunchy entertainment. However, her friend, played by Sarah Sherman, reassured her, explaining that these strippers were “a different kind,” leading to the grand introduction of Auggie and Remington.
Stripped of Traditionalism
Written by Ben Marshall and Jack Bensinger, the sketch beautifully played on the absurdities of modern masculinity. The duo entered, decked out in cozy cardigans and jeans—an immediate departure from the expected attire of strippers. Marshall set the tone straight away, asking, “Do we have consent to enter your home?” This line not only garnered laughs but also established their sensitive and respectful approach to the bachelorette party theme.
The humorous scene escalated as one of the strippers held up a copy of Hanya Yanagihara’s A Little Life, expressing his admiration for “this brilliant woman of color.” Here, the comedy danced between satire and sincerity, demonstrating a playful critique of societal expectations surrounding masculinity and seduction.
The Cozy Performance
As the sketch progressed, the pair attempted to “perform” a quirky interpretation of the classic Ginuwine song “Pony,” stripping off their cardigans only to reveal yet another layer of cardigans underneath. This clever twist exemplified the tone of the sketch, where the emphasis was on humor rather than overt sensuality. O’Connor’s character even quipped about political figures, suggesting, “I think the president should be Cynthia Erivo,” which was met with adoration from the bride, adding further absurdity to the performance.
Marshall’s character showcased a tattoo of political activist Zohran Mamdani, which received mixed reviews from the partygoers but was a hit with the live audience. This blend of humor with gentle nods to social relevance illustrated the duo’s knack for making their characters relatable and amusing.
The Emotional Turn
Just when the audience thought the quirky nature of the sketch had reached its peak, one of the strippers broke down in tears, stating he had “got overstimulated.” This unexpected moment not only added another layer of comedy but also underscored a genuine emotional openness rarely seen in more traditional sketches about masculinity.
Ben Marshall’s Rise on SNL
Ben Marshall’s comedic prowess has been evident since his introduction as one of the new featured players in Season 51. Initially gaining fame as part of the comedy trio Please Don’t Destroy, Marshall transitioned to SNL, bringing his unique voice and perspective to the show. His journey reflects a blend of friendships and professional collaborations that have flourished within the comedic landscape.
In a heartfelt Instagram post celebrating his casting, Marshall expressed his gratitude towards both his friends and his newfound opportunity. His sincerity shines through in his statements about wanting to continue working with his comedy partners while maintaining his role as a writer on SNL. This duality of performing and crafting content showcases his versatility in the entertainment realm.
A Night of Laughter and Reflection
O’Connor’s hosting spot, paired with Marshall’s humor-filled sketch, made for an enchanting evening that balanced comedic gold with meaningful commentary. Each element—ranging from the lighthearted monologue to the unique approach of the “Bachelorette Party Strippers” sketch—served to redefine expectations, making this episode of SNL one of the most memorable in recent memory.
For fans eager to relive the laughter, the sketches can be streamed on Peacock, allowing viewers to catch every witty moment again and again. Tune in to Saturday Night Live each Saturday night at 11:30/10:30c on NBC or catch up on previous episodes!