A Saturday Night Live star has revealed the behind-the-scenes story of what it took for NFL star Travis Kelce to host the iconic show this year. The 35-year-old Kansas City Chiefs tight end took the stage on March 2, 2023, marking a significant moment in both his career and the world of comedy.
Winning the Super Bowl: A Key Requirement
SNL veteran Heidi Gardner recently shared her experience on the Not Skinny But Not Fat podcast, highlighting a unique condition set by the show’s creator, Lorne Michaels. According to Gardner, Michaels insisted that Kelce needed to win the Super Bowl before he could host. "I was like, ‘That is so much pressure to ask!’" Gardner recalled. However, Kelce rose to the challenge, leading the Chiefs to a thrilling 38-35 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl 57.
Heidi Gardner’s Advocacy for Kelce
Gardner, a self-proclaimed Chiefs fan, had been advocating for Kelce to host the show for years. "The biggest swing I ever did in that department, and it did work, but it took a couple of years, was Travis Kelce," she said. She recognized Kelce’s potential as a host after seeing him in various acting roles and appearances. "He’s funny, he’s charming. I had done the ESPYs with him, announcing something together," Gardner noted, emphasizing her belief in his comedic abilities.
A Unique Tailgating Experience
On the night of the show, Gardner decided to throw a tailgate party in her dressing room, paying homage to the famous tailgating culture at Arrowhead Stadium. "I was like, ‘I’m gonna have a tailgate in my room’ because Arrowhead Stadium is famous for tailgating," she explained, mentioning that barbecue was on the menu. To her surprise, Kelce showed up with his brother, NFL legend Jason Kelce, despite his hosting duties. "I just know for a fact that’s the only host in SNL history that’s ever tailgated before hosting," she added with a laugh.
Kelce’s Rise in Entertainment
Since his memorable SNL appearance, Kelce has continued to expand his horizons in the entertainment industry. He has made guest appearances in Ryan Murphy’s horror series Grotesquerie and is also hosting the Prime Video game show Are You Smarter Than a Celebrity? This trajectory showcases Kelce’s versatility and growing popularity beyond the football field.
The Moment of Hosting
When Kelce finally took the stage to host SNL, it was a culmination of hard work and determination. Gardner noted that he appeared on the show just before going public with his relationship with music icon Taylor Swift, adding an extra layer of excitement to his hosting debut. "His talents were already on their way," she remarked, highlighting how Kelce was already making waves in both sports and entertainment.
Looking Ahead: The Chiefs’ Ambitions
As Kelce embraces his new roles in entertainment, he remains focused on football. The Chiefs are currently aiming to secure their third consecutive Super Bowl title. With Kelce as a key player, fans are eager to see what the future holds for both him and the team. His leadership on the field and charisma off it make him a standout figure in the NFL.
The Impact of Hosting SNL
Hosting SNL is no small feat, and for Kelce, it was a chance to showcase his personality to a broader audience. The experience not only highlighted his comedic chops but also solidified his status as a multifaceted entertainer. As Gardner pointed out, the journey to hosting was not just about talent; it was about timing and the right circumstances aligning.
In conclusion, Travis Kelce’s journey to hosting Saturday Night Live is a testament to his hard work, talent, and the support of those around him. From winning the Super Bowl to tailgating in the dressing room, each moment has contributed to his rise in both the NFL and the entertainment world. As he continues to balance his football career with new opportunities in show business, fans can only anticipate what exciting ventures lie ahead for this dynamic athlete.
