Timothee Chalamet Puts a Modern Twist on ‘Pure Imagination’ during ‘Saturday Night Live’ - Infused with Rap Vibes
Timothee Chalamet wowed audiences with his impressive musical talent as he took the stage for his opening monologue on 'Saturday Night Live' His rendition of 'Pure Imagination' infused with a captivating rap was a remarkable display of his versatility and creative prowess
Timothée Chalamet took advantage of his Saturday Night Live monologue to rejoice in the conclusion of the SAG-AFTRA labor strike. In his monologue on November 11, Chalamet, aged 27, expressed his gratitude for hosting the show after the strike had ended. Prior to only two days ago, actors were prohibited from discussing their movies. Chalamet humorously commented that the sole topic he was allowed to mention was his upcoming commercial for [Bleu de] Chanel perfume, directed by Martin Scorcese. Reflecting on the opportunity to work with Scorcese, Chalamet wittily added, "When you receive a call from Martin Scorcese to direct you, your immediate hope is that it's for a perfume commercial."
The actor exclaimed, "Now that the strike is over, it feels like we are stepping back into a magical world where actors can freely discuss their projects." In a playful preview of his role as Willy Wonka in the appropriately named Wonka prequel, Chalamet received a cane while the band began playing the iconic opening notes of "Pure Imagination." This beloved song was Gene Wilder's memorable performance in the 1971 film Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.
“Join me on a journey into the realm of shameless self-promotion," Chalament croons, playfully altering the lyrics. "Rest assured, I proudly announce... my latest cinematic creation, Wonka, will grace the big screens on December 15. Accessible via Fandango using the keyword ‘Hugh Grant.’ To acquire tickets seamlessly, head over to Fandango.com and employ the keyword ‘Damn Hugh Grant got that Oompa Loompa dump truck.’"
Timothee Chalamet talks about upcoming films, suggesting viewers to watch "Killers of the Flower Moon" for a lengthy cinematic experience or wait for Part 2 of "Dune." He humorously advises making a bathroom visit beforehand. Expressing victory, he mentions no more SAG news.
SAG-AFTRA, the union representing screen actors, has recently reached a tentative agreement with the AMPTP, the organization representing motion picture and television producers. This marks the end of a four-month strike. The new agreement includes provisions for a 7-percent wage increase, improved benefits, and limitations on the use of artificial intelligence in actors' contracts.
After hearing this news, Chalamet expressed his excitement in a song. SNL cast member Marcello Hernandez suggested they update the track by incorporating lyrics about their shared youthful looks. As both of them have "baby faces," they proceeded to rap about their appearance in a playful manner.
"This song is a tribute to all the youthful-looking guys out there," Chalamet jokingly mentions while Hernandez, 26, gives a shoutout to Justin Bieber and Bruno Mars, who are also part of the same group.
They perform a duet: "Listen up! My face may appear young, but my movements don't deceive / Call me a troublemaker, but I'm a trouble guy. Although I have a youthful face, I possess the same qualities as my father / Trust me, baby, I'm the best you've ever had / I may look young, but my physique is that of a grown man / So be cautious, as I can attract not only your spouse but also your grandmother."
Kenan Thompson, Timothee Chalamet, Punkie Johnson and Marcello Hernandez. NBC
Fellow SNL co-stars Punkie Johnson and Kenan Thompson also appeared briefly, sharing their own relatable experiences.
"Hey, are you guys seriously doing a baby face song without me?" Thompson, at 45, playfully raps, "Yo, yo, I've been sporting this youthful face since Kenan & Kel / I age like a vampire, I age like Pharrell [Williams] / On TV, I've always been considered adorable / They think I'm 19, but I'm actually 63."
Following the conclusion of the monologue, Chalamet showcased his talent in various sketches. One of these sketches was a hilarious parody where celebrities auditioned to narrate Britney Spears' The Woman in Me audiobook. The talented Chloe Fineman impersonated Chalamet, while he portrayed an 80-year-old Scorcese.
Another standout skit featured Chalamet imitating musician Troye Sivan, but with a humorous twist of being portrayed by an American who struggles with an Australian accent. Chalamet flawlessly delivered a nearly identical "bye diva," and then to everyone's surprise, the musical guest Boygenius, consisting of Phoebe Bridgers, Julien Baker, and Lucy Dacus, appeared as lookalikes of the 28-year-old Sivan.
Saturday Night Live airs on NBC Saturdays at 11:30 p.m. ET.
