Nate Bargatze’s Emmys 2025 Monologue Falls Flat with Jabs at ‘Severance,’ ‘The Bear’ and More in Revived ‘SNL’ Sketch

Nate Bargatze opened the 2025 Emmy Awards with a humorous monologue that revisited his popular “Saturday Night Live” sketch, this time adopting the persona of Philo T. Farnsworth, the inventor of television.

With the backdrop of a star-studded audience, he brought his unique brand of comedy to the forefront, joined by notable “SNL” cast members Bowen Yang, Mikey Day, and Austin Johnson. This year, his jabs were aimed at some of the most talked-about series in the current television lineup, cleverly critiquing the absurdities in modern programming trends.

Mocking Modern Television Trends

Bargatze highlighted the irony behind many streaming services, jesting that they represent “a new way for companies to lose money.” His pointed observations struck a chord as he noted how some of the most popular shows feature “murderers” in lead roles, which has become a common theme in recent viewership.

With a comedic lens, he took explicit aim at the nominated series “Severance,” describing it as a sitcom where employees have their work personas erase their weekend memories. This narrative created an uproar of laughter as the audience appreciated his take on the show’s serious themes.

Questioning Award Nominations

Bargatze didn’t hold back when addressing the classifications in award nominations. One of his standout remarks questioned the nomination of Hulu’s “The Bear” as a comedy, despite its heavy dramatic undertones.

This commentary addressed the blurred lines between genres in today’s television landscape, showcasing his knack for humor and relatable observations.

The audience reacted enthusiastically, understanding the absurdity of the awards landscape where dramatic shows often vie for acknowledgment in comedic categories.

A Unique Charity Initiative

 

Infusing a generous spirit into the evening, Bargatze announced an intention to donate $100,000 to the Boys and Girls Club of America. In a twist that added an interactive edge to the ceremony, he joked that the total donation would be reduced for any acceptance speech that overruns the strict 45-second time limit.

This light-hearted challenge elicited laughter from the crowd and encouraged brevity during speeches, transforming a common award show feature into an engaging and entertaining experience.

Creating a Light-Hearted Atmosphere

Despite the serious undertones found in many programs, Bargatze maintained a commitment to light-heartedness throughout his monologue.

He cleverly sidestepped any hot-button political topics, instead focusing on creating a festive atmosphere for all attendees, including the A-list celebrities in attendance.

His approach aimed to deliver a night of laughter and escape, ensuring a positive experience for everyone involved. By grounding his performance in humor and goodwill, he presented a welcoming tone for the rest of the awards ceremony.

The Impact of Bargatze’s Approach

Overall, Nate Bargatze’s hosting style masterfully combined nostalgia and contemporary humor, making for the perfect introduction to the 2025 Emmys.

While some may argue that his jokes fell flat in areas, the intent behind the humor echoed a desire to connect with the audience and provide a memorable experience.

By mixing fundraising with light-hearted jabs at both nominated shows and the television industry at large, he set a vibrant tone for the evening, inviting everyone into a world of laughter amidst the seriousness of recent events.

As fans and industry insiders reflect on the 2025 Emmy Awards, it’s clear that Nate Bargatze’s monologue was more than mere comedy; it was an invitation to embrace laughter and goodwill. For those seeking to relive a night of celebration and engage with the evolving narrative of television, the Emmy Awards, as presented by Bargatze, served as the perfect platform.