Marcello Hernández: The SNL Star Redefining Latino Comedy

For five decades, Saturday Night Live has served as a cultural barometer for American humor. In 2025, the legendary sketch show marked its 50th anniversary, drawing a massive audience of nearly 15 million viewers for its special broadcast. This milestone celebration underscored the program's enduring relevance in a rapidly changing media landscape.

Amid this historic backdrop, a new generation of performers is stepping into the spotlight. Leading this charge is Marcello Hernández, a 28-year-old comedian whose rapid ascent represents a significant shift in the show's demographic and comedic focus. His presence signals a new era for the institution, one that is increasingly reflective of the diverse American experience.

Hernández's journey to the iconic stage began in Miami, a city renowned for its vibrant Latin culture. Born to a Dominican father and a Cuban mother, his upbringing provided the rich tapestry of experiences that now define his comedic voice. In 2022, he made history by becoming the first cast member of the Gen Z generation with Latin American roots to join the show permanently.

His comedic style is deeply personal, often drawing directly from the nuances of growing up in a bilingual, bicultural household. He frequently weaves fragments of Spanish into his sketches, adding an authentic layer to his performances that resonates with a wide audience. This approach has allowed him to carve out a unique identity within the ensemble cast.

• First Gen Z Latino cast member
• Roots in Cuban and Dominican culture
• Authentic bilingual comedy style
• Deeply personal storytelling

One of Hernández's most enduring creations is the character Domingo, a charismatic Latino figure celebrated for his ability to win over women's hearts. This character, along with others, has generated millions of views online, showcasing Hernández's ability to create viral moments that extend far beyond the television broadcast. His sketches have become a staple of the show's digital presence.

Furthermore, his talent has attracted collaborations with some of Hollywood's biggest names. He has shared the screen with A-list guests, including Chilean actor Pedro Pascal and Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny. In these sketches, Hernández often plays the role of Pascal's son or Bad Bunny's nephew, solidifying his status as a versatile performer capable of holding his own alongside established icons.

Hernández's rise to fame occurs against a backdrop of heightened immigration enforcement and political tension in the United States. The current climate surrounding migration has created a complex environment for cultural expression. In this context, the visibility of a young Latino comedian thriving on a national platform carries a weight that transcends entertainment.

His success story offers a counter-narrative to the often-polarizing discourse surrounding Latino communities. By centering his heritage in his work on such a prestigious stage, Hernández contributes to a broader, more nuanced representation of Latino identity in mainstream American media. His work on SNL highlights the show's continued evolution as a mirror to society.

Since its debut in 1975, Saturday Night Live has transformed from a simple entertainment program into a beloved national institution. Its ability to adapt and discover fresh talent has been key to its longevity. The show's status as the most-watched program across all American networks in 2021 proves its continued dominance in the competitive television market.

As the show moves into its next half-century, performers like Marcello Hernández are essential to its future. His journey from a young comedian in Miami to a key player on SNL illustrates the evolving landscape of American comedy. He represents a new wave of artists who are unapologetically themselves, bringing their full heritage to the forefront of the cultural conversation.

Marcello Hernández's ascent on Saturday Night Live is more than just a personal success; it is a reflection of shifting cultural tides. His ability to connect with millions through his authentic, bicultural perspective has made him a standout performer on the legendary show.

As SNL continues to navigate its role as a satirical mirror to American life, the voices of its diverse cast will remain crucial. Hernández's journey is a testament to the power of authentic storytelling and the enduring appeal of comedy that speaks to shared human experiences.