Awkwafina Is the First Asian Woman to Host ‘SNL’ in 18 Years
During her monologue, Awkwafina pays a quick tribute to Lucy Liu, who happened to be the first Asian American women to host SNL eighteen years ago. Asian representation has come a long way in the past two decades. Now in its 44th season run, SNL brought on actress/rapper Awkwafina, only the second Asian-American woman to ever host the late-night series–Lucy Liu being the first.
During the opening monologue, Awkwafina took a moment to recall a true story about when she found out her idol, Lucy Liu, was going to host SNL. “I was a kid and I didn’t have a ticket, so I knew I wasn’t getting in. But I just wanted to be near the building. And I remember how important that episode was for me and how it totally changed what I thought was possible for an Asian American woman.” She concludes by saying, “Standing here tonight is a dream I never thought would come true. So thank you, Lucy, for opening the door. I wasn’t able to make it into the building back then, but 18 years later, I’m hosting the show.” In the end, she shouted, “I love you, Lucy Liu! Be my friend!”
.@awkwafina CRUSHED IT SOOOOOO HARD!!!! Thank you for making me laugh, cry and love. ❤️👏👏👏👏👏👏❤️ @nbcsnl
— Ken Jeong (@kenjeong) October 7, 2018
I still can’t believe what happened tonight. Thank you @nbcsnl and thank you to everyone who tuned in to watch, including grandma. pic.twitter.com/ZmQfjO5NJz
— AWKWAFINA (@awkwafina) October 7, 2018
“Standing here tonight is a dream I never thought would come true. So thank you, @LucyLiu, for opening the door.” — @awkwafina pic.twitter.com/wtwzNOfAwK
— Saturday Night Live – SNL (@nbcsnl) October 7, 2018
Sooo proud of @awkwafina. We love you girl!! Killed it #crazyrichasians #snl @nbcsnl @CrazyRichMovie @ConstanceWu @pangerz @HarryShumJr pic.twitter.com/wQiQVcyAjw
— Jimmy O. Yang (@FunnyAsianDude) October 7, 2018
