(NBC) — “Saturday Night Live” is saying so long to 2024 this weekend and a familiar face, Martin Short, will serve as host.
In an interview about the episode, Short shared about his long-running connection to the show.
“It’s a big episode and it’s fun, and it’s New York and the holidays it’s the best place in the world, you know,” said Short.
Short will soak up the holiday spirit, it’s his fifth time hosting or co-hosting the show.
“Everything you do, you either make it a joyous occasion or you make it stressful, and I work in joy,” said Short.
Joy that extends to his Emmy-nominated work in “Only Murders in the Building.”
“’Only Murders’ is the happiest set you could be on,” said Short. “Because Steve (Martin) and Selena (Gomez) and I all work the same way. We work in happiness and keep it light and there’s no tension.”
A sharp contrast to 90 minutes of live comedy.
“Just age-old anxiety and fear,” said Short. “It’s live television. Anything can happen.”
Short’s frequent “SNL” presence has almost made him seem like a cast member, and he was for one season 40 years ago.
Characters like Ed Grimley and Nathan Thurm ignited Short’s career.
“Everyone’s always amazed by that,” said Short. “They also think I live in New York, which I don’t. You know, between ‘Only Murders in the Building’ and ‘SNL,’ they always think I live here.”
But Short will take up residence once again on Saturday.
Hozier is this week’s musical guest. SNL will return in January as it ramps up to its big, 50th anniversary celebration in February.