Story perspectives
Reese Witherspoon Revives Humor on SNL Post-9/11
11/6/2025
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Story summary
- Reese Witherspoon, actress and host of Saturday Night Live, served as the first host after the September 11 attacks.
- Initially hesitant, Witherspoon accepted the role after Lorne Michaels emphasized the need for humor to restore national spirit.
- New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani delivered a special address.
- Paul Simon performed, delaying Witherspoon's monologue.
- Witherspoon appeared in sketches with Tina Fey and Amy Poehler.
