When Ryan Gosling returns to host Saturday Night Live tonight, the expectation is for a strong episode. Gosling has developed a reputation for delivering wildly entertaining sketches whenever he hosts, even if it means breaking character and bringing the cast with him.
So with expectations already raised, what can Gosling and SNL do to surprise fans? A well-placed cameo has long been the show's go-to move when it wants to move the needle a little extra. Here are three possible stars who could crash Studio 8H tonight and add to what should be one of the season's best episodes.
Eva Mendes
One of the easiest predictions is Ryan Gosling’s wife, Eva Mendes. The famously private couple rarely appears together publicly, which only makes the idea of a surprise cameo even more appealing to fans who love the celebrity pairing.
The timing also works out. Mendes was already in New York this week and even appeared during Gosling’s interview on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, proving she’s in town while SNL is live. Gosling brought her out as a birthday present, so maybe a Saturday Night Live cameo could be the icing on the cake.
A cameo during the monologue would be enough to send the audience into a frenzy. But it would be nice to see Mendes get the chance to remind everyone watching of her comedy chops in a full sketch.
Tina Fey
Another intriguing possibility is Tina Fey. The former SNL head writer and cast member has returned to the show many times over the years, often reprising her famous political impressions.
That could be especially relevant right now because Kristi Noem is back in the headlines following reports that she was effectively pushed out as head of the Department of Homeland Security. Fey previously portrayed Noem on SNL, and the show has never been shy about reviving impressions when the news cycle demands it.
There’s also a promotional angle. Fey is hosting the premiere episode of Saturday Night Live UK on March 21. A cameo tonight could help generate buzz for the international expansion of the iconic sketch series while giving audiences a nostalgic return from one of SNL’s most popular alumni.
Kate McKinnon
Speaking of popular alumni, Kate McKinnon is another potential cameo during Ryan Gosling's return to Saturday Night Live.
One of Gosling’s most unforgettable moments as host came during the famous “Close Encounter” sketches, where McKinnon plays an eccentric target of alien abductions whose graphic stories constantly derail the scene. Gosling famously struggled to keep a straight face during those sketches, and the clips have since become viral staples among SNL fans.
It can be hard to know when enough is enough when it comes to recurring sketches. But if SNL would rather do one too many than leave audiences wanting more, tonight is a good opportunity to deliver another "Close Encounter." Of course, the sketch only works with McKinnon (and ideally Cecily Strong), so a cameo has to be in the cards for this one to land.