It’s not every day you see an actor step into the shoes of a music legend for a biopic and then, mere days later, embody that same legend on live television. But that’s exactly what Timothée Chalamet did when he hosted and served as the musical guest on Saturday Night Live back in January. Fresh off an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of Bob Dylan in the upcoming film 'A Complete Unknown,' Chalamet took on the daunting task of performing not one, but three of Dylan's songs.
During his opening monologue, Chalamet admitted these weren't just any Dylan tunes; they were his personal favorites. This wasn't just a random musical interlude; it was a deliberate nod to Dylan himself. Back in 1979, the iconic singer-songwriter also pulled double duty on SNL, performing three of his own tracks. Chalamet mirrored this historic feat, bringing a unique energy to the Studio 8H stage.
The songs he chose were "Outlaw Blues," "Three Angels," and "Tomorrow Is a Long Time." While the reference material suggests the performances might have felt a bit raw, even akin to a karaoke night, there's an undeniable charm in Chalamet's willingness to dive headfirst into the challenge. Accompanied by James Blake on keyboard, he tackled these deep cuts from Dylan's extensive catalog. It’s a testament to his dedication to the role and his appreciation for Dylan's artistry that he’d go this route, especially given the notoriously tricky sound environment of SNL.
Beyond the musical numbers, Chalamet brought his signature energetic presence to a variety of sketches. From an aggressive fitness instructor to an AI bot in a classroom setting, and even a rather unconventional doctor, he proved his comedic chops. The episode also featured a memorable cold open with Lin-Manuel Miranda as Alexander Hamilton, hilariously interrupted by a Trump impression. It’s this blend of acting prowess and a genuine, albeit perhaps slightly nervous, musical endeavor that made Chalamet's SNL appearance so memorable. It wasn't just about hitting every note perfectly; it was about the performance, the commitment, and the sheer audacity of channeling a musical titan on one of television's most iconic stages.