The Timeless Appeal of “New Studio” from Saturday Night Live
Some sketches from Saturday Night Live (SNL) earn the title of classic—those that draw you in for multiple viewings and keep you laughing for days. One such gem is the cut-for-time sketch “New Studio,” a hilarious collaboration featuring the multi-talented Ariana Grande, Kenan Thompson, Vanessa Bayer, and Taran Killam.
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An Inside Look at “New Studio”
Ariana Grande’s foray into SNL came in March 2016, where she hosted the show and performed double duty as the musical guest. During dress rehearsals, she took part in a sketch that would remain fondly remembered, even though it was ultimately cut from the live show. In “New Studio,” the narrative revolves around former coworkers visiting a colleague, played by Taran Killam, who has transformed his life to pursue his dream of being a singer.
Grande fondly recalled this quirky sketch during a November 2020 appearance on Amy Poehler’s podcast, Good Hang. With enthusiasm, she described Killam’s character: “He had this big ’70s hair and he was this weird musician person,” she laughed, chuckling at the absurdities of the long, strange song he performed.
Ariana’s Increased Love for the Sketch
The sketch has an undeniable emotional significance for Grande, especially since her father, Edward Butera, became a devoted fan. “My dad watches it every day. Not kidding,” she quipped. “He starts his days with ‘Smile.'” This daily ritual highlights not only her father’s humor but also the sketch’s unexpected charm.
Taran Killam later confirmed this touching sentiment during an interview with Seth Meyers, stating that Grande often messages him to share her father’s joy. “She occasionally Instagram messages me,” Killam explained, relaying her father’s continuous laughter during his daily viewing.
Craftsmanship Behind “New Studio”
The brilliance of “New Studio” stems from the collaboration of two talented writers, James Anderson and Taran Killam. Anderson, a veteran SNL writer known for iconic sketches such as “The Californians” and “Target Lady,” contributed significantly to the comedic landscape of the show from 2000 to 2020. His humor can be recognized in notable segments like the one that introduced us to the Destiny’s Child-esque act, Gemini’s Twin.
Killam’s performance as Greg—a character revealing a new song titled “Smile”—embodies a unique blend of cringe and charm. Describing the song as “very modern, very sexy,” Killam portrayed a musician whose obsession with one woman’s smile resulted in an overly elaborate performance. The lyrics, whimsical and poetic, reflect this obsession: “I would hold her, and her smile spread across her face and body…”
The Joy of Rediscovery
While “New Studio” never made it to air, it has become a cult favorite among fans, notably thanks to its availability online. Killam mused that its lack of airtime was evident upon rewatching it but still found joy in the laughter it brought to Grande’s father and others. The humor lies in its ridiculous premise and Killam’s delivery, making it a treasure for dedicated viewers.
As Ariana Grande prepares to return to SNL for the Christmas special on December 20—with Cher as the musical guest—there’s excitement not just for her performances but for the continuation of inside jokes and shared laughs stemming from the “New Studio” experience. With behind-the-scenes glimpses shared on Instagram, it’s clear that the spirit of SNL continues to thrive, creating moments that resonate personally with audiences.
This combination of talented performances, heartfelt familial connections, and the eccentric charm of a less-than-perfect sketch make “New Studio” a jewel in the vast treasure trove of SNL history. It’s one of those delightful moments that remind us of the endless joy and laughter that live comedy can bring—even if it doesn’t always make it to air.