This weekend, comedian Chris Rock made a startling comeback to Saturday Night Live, delivering a fiery monologue directed at various political and cultural heavyweights. This was Rock’s first hosting appearance since the season finale in May 2021, and he lost no time getting into controversial topics.

Rock began his show with his trademark combination of social criticism and humor, addressing current events and prominent public figures. He criticized American politics and questioned the dignity of the presidency. “This is not the most dignified job in the world,” Rock said. “We’ve seen presidents attend the inauguration with pregnant slaves, okay? And I’m only talking about Bill Clinton.” He continued with a darkly amusing remark: “A cup of coffee in America costs seven rapists.”

The comic also criticized former President Donald Trump, implying he would impose draconian deportation procedures. In a controversial moment, Rock referred to Elon Musk as the...