Saturday Night Live did a lot more than “okay” in the ratings with former cast member Eddie Murphy’s first hosting turn in 35 years.
Murphy, with musical guest Lizzo, drew 9.9 million total viewers and a 2.5 demo rating, surging 68 and 98 percent from this season’s averages to mark the sketch series’ best numbers since May 13, 2017 (when Melissa McCarthy hosted with musical guest HAIM).
Additionally, that 2.5 ties The Masked Singer’s season opener for the best demo number for any entertainment telecast this TV season — and it also makes the Dec. 21 SNL the top-rated comedy telecast since The Big Bang Theory’s series finale in May.
