Teyana Taylor’s journey to her first Academy Award nomination came with an unexpected twist — inside a Saturday Night Live dressing room. The 35-year-old multi-hyphenate revealed during her SNL debut on January 25 that she discovered her nomination for One Battle After Another while being fitted for a bald cap. “I found out the way every little girl wants to find out — getting fitted for a bald cap next to Mikey Day,” Taylor joked in her opening monologue, drawing laughter and applause from the audience.
A Night of Comedy and Celebration
Taylor leaned into the comedic moment, later appearing in a sketch as an octogenarian grandpa on the dance floor, complete with bald cap and fake belly. Her performance showcased not only her humor but also her signature dance skills. The episode’s cold open poked fun at Donald Trump’s obsession with awards, while Mike Myers returned to impersonate Elon Musk. Brooklyn-based rock band Geese made their debut as the musical guest, adding to the night’s eclectic energy.
Showcasing Her Range
Beyond comedy, Taylor highlighted her versatility. She joined Kenan Thompson in a musical sketch, turning delayed flight announcements into a duet. In her monologue, she reminded viewers of her eclectic career — from winning season seven of The Masked Singer to starring in MTV’s My Super Sweet 16, and even her current pursuit of culinary school.
“I’m like a Glade plug-in air freshener,” she quipped. “Why only plug me into the bathroom when I can make the whole building smell good?”
Awards Season Momentum
Taylor’s Oscar nomination follows her Golden Globe win for Best Supporting Actress. In One Battle After Another, she plays revolutionary Perfidia Beverly Hills opposite Leonardo DiCaprio’s eccentric stoner dad, Bob Ferguson. The film has become a critics’ favorite, winning four Golden Globes and positioning itself as a strong contender at the 98th Academy Awards on March 15. For Best Supporting Actress, Taylor faces competition from Wunmi Mosaku (Sinners), Amy Madigan (Weapons), and both Elle Fanning and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas (Sentimental Value).
Reflecting on her nomination, Taylor shared: “I fell asleep last night watching Pretty Woman, thinking about happy endings and how impossible they sometimes feel … and I woke up realizing I’ve been living in one that God has been preparing me for my own fairytale ending.” With her comedic timing, musical talent, and award-winning acting, Taylor’s SNL debut doubled as a celebration of her career milestone — and a reminder of her unstoppable range.
