Dua Lipa Brought Her Star Power to SNL, Even If the Writers Didn’t Fully Unleash It
The one and only Dua Lipa took center stage this weekend, serving double duty as both host and musical guest on the iconic Studio 8H stage. While the grueling schedule of rehearsals and performances can be utterly exhausting, the chart-topping pop princess handled it with her trademark poise and professionalism.
In her opening monologue, the disco-pop diva charmed with a self-deprecating wink at the “go girl, give us nothing” meme that went viral after one of her more subdued performances. “I didn’t give you nothing: I gave you the greatest meme of all time,” she quipped with a radiant smile before promising, “Tonight, I’m going to give you everything.”
And give everything she did—even if the SNL writers didn’t always seem to know how to wield her talents. Time after time, Lipa was relegated to straight-woman status or minor supporting roles that could have been played by anyone. She brought megawatt star presence, but was too often stuck just reacting to the zaniness around her.
When finally given a chance to flex her comedic chops, like playing a heavily accented Italian woman in the night’s final sketch, Lipa shone. She’s a magnetic performer who can command a stage with ease. It’s just a shame SNL didn’t fully capitalize on that skill set in the comedic realm this time around.
Of course, Lipa got plenty of chances to work her magic during her two showstopping musical performances. Promoting her smash album Future Nostalgia, she delivered the bops “One Kiss” and “Cool” with her signature sensual swagger and powerhouse vocals.
While the episode may have been a bit uneven overall, relying too heavily on recurring sketches, Lipa’s moments of brilliance provided the bright spots. Her hosting duties may have been underutilized, but Dua simply being Dua was more than enough.
The multi-talented star has been dominating every avenue she pursues—be it music, acting, or modeling. At only 27 years old, there’s no denying that Dua Lipa is a true force singularly adept at radiating authenticity and confidence. While SNL may have played it safe this week, Dua undoubtedly has the charisma and comedic talent to lead an iconic episode worthy of her star power in the future.
