Ariana Grande suggested during a recent appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon that Saturday Night Live may finally be retiring its recurring Domingo sketch. Grande’s comments referenced growing frustration among SNL viewers, who have criticized the repeated use of the character over the past year. The original Domingo sketch went viral in 2024, but subsequent installments received significant backlash. Grande’s remarks have raised new questions about the future of the bit and the writers’ plans moving forward. The conversation highlights the ongoing debate regarding sketch repetition on long-running live-comedy formats.
What Happened and Why
Ariana Grande, who starred in the original “Bridesmaid Speech” sketch where Domingo debuted, spoke candidly about the character while discussing SNL’s recent cold open. During her interview with Fallon, Grande said, “I think Domingo is dead,” prompting widespread speculation that producers may retire the recurring bit.
Domingo first appeared on October 12, 2024, played by cast member Marcello Hernández. The sketch became a breakout moment, accumulating more than 20 million YouTube views. Its popularity resulted in multiple follow-up sketches, including “Babymoon,” “Vow Renewal,” and the October 18, 2025 cold open. The most recent appearance, however, drew heavy criticism from viewers who felt the concept had overstayed its welcome.
Grande’s comments addressed this backlash directly and were perceived as a signal that SNL may be reconsidering its strategy regarding the character.
Quotes and Analyst Reactions
Media analysts note that Ariana Grande’s remarks carry weight because of her history with the show as both a popular host and musical guest. Comedy commentators have argued that SNL often extends recurring sketches beyond their natural lifespan, citing audience fatigue as a recurring issue.
Entertainment critics have highlighted that Domingo’s early popularity made its repetition understandable, but fan sentiment shifted sharply after the 2025 cold open. Viewers expressed frustration on social media platforms, calling for the sketch to be retired.
Grande’s interview served as a notable acknowledgment of fan concerns. While her comments were delivered humorously, analysts note that they reflect common feedback received by the show’s writers.
How It Affects SNL’s Creative Direction
The discussion surrounding Domingo underscores a consistent challenge for SNL: determining how long a recurring character should remain in rotation. Analysts compare the Domingo arc to other sketches that began as fan favorites but later faced diminishing returns when revisited too often.
Ariana Grande’s remarks may influence how producers assess recurring segments heading into the remainder of the 2025–26 television season. Public reaction suggests a need for more variety in character-driven sketches, especially during high-visibility episodes.
If the Domingo character is retired, SNL may focus on developing new concepts that appeal to younger audiences while avoiding the pitfalls of overexposure.
Upcoming SNL Decisions and Appearances
NBC has not confirmed whether the Domingo sketch will return. The next live episode of Saturday Night Live is scheduled for early December, and audience members will be watching closely for signs of the character’s potential retirement.
Ariana Grande will appear again during the promotional cycle for Wicked, though no additional commentary on SNL has been announced. The show’s writing team is expected to evaluate fan feedback as it prepares its winter slate.
Whether Domingo reappears or not, Grande’s comments have renewed attention on the creative decisions guiding the long-running comedy series.
Sources
ESPN Entertainment Desk, NBC Press Archives, AP Television Wire, Reuters Arts & Culture, On3 Media
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