Connor Storrie welcomes Olympic hockey players on ‘SNL’ – from both the US men’s and women’s teams
Connor Storrie welcomes Olympic hockey players on ‘SNL’ – from both the US men’s and women’s teams
Olympic Stars on Saturday Night Live
During the latest episode of “Saturday Night Live,” US women’s hockey team gold medalists Megan Keller and Hilary Knight took the stage, brushing aside some recent controversy tied to their male counterparts. The episode, hosted by “Heated Rivalry” actor Connor Storrie, came just days after the US men’s team secured gold at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympic Games. Their victory sparked debate when the team celebrated with FBI director Kash Patel, later facing criticism for laughing at President Trump’s joke about being “impeached” for not inviting the women’s team to the White House.
Storrie’s Monologue and Humor
Storrie opened the show by welcoming Jack and Quinn Hughes, the brothers from the men’s team, who arrived sporting their gold medals and a few missing teeth. “We’ve been so busy playing, we haven’t had time to see your show yet,” Jack Hughes said, prompting his brother to quip, “It’s about hockey, right?” The women’s team later joined the stage, with Keller and Knight addressing the audience while subtly nodding to the show’s audience demographic.
“Don’t worry,” said Keller. “We saw your show.”
The pair humorously remarked that they were initially scheduled to appear alone on “SNL,” but decided to “invite the guys too.” They also highlighted the irony of the men’s team’s last gold win over 40 years ago, contrasting it with the women’s more recent triumph. The segment seemed lighthearted, with no direct reference to the ongoing tensions surrounding the men’s team.
Accent Skills and Career Shift
Storrie’s debut on “SNL” showcased not only his hosting talents but also his ability to switch accents, a skill fans of “Rivalry” were already familiar with. The actor, known for portraying Ilya Rozanov in the romantic hockey series, mastered the Russian language in just three weeks before filming. “Selfishly, I just love Russian language. I love any opportunity to do an accent, learn a new skill, and this had all of it,” he shared in a November interview.
Storrie’s journey from server at a Culver City, Los Angeles restaurant to a leading role in “Heated Rivalry” became a highlight of his monologue. He reflected on how his life “totally changed” since being cast, balancing his surprise at the opportunity with a sense of fulfillment. “On one hand, I’m totally surprised and humbled that this is happening to me, and on the other hand, this was my destiny,” he declared dramatically.
Cultural Impact and Busy Schedule
“Heated Rivalry” has reshaped discussions around masculinity, consent, and the evolving romance genre in streaming media. The series, which has already been renewed for a second season, has elevated Storrie and co-star Hudson Williams to prominence as male leads in contemporary storytelling. Before this role, Storrie was best known for a supporting part in 2024’s “Joker: Folie a Deux.”
With a packed schedule, Storrie has been making waves at events like the Grammys, Paris Fashion Week, and even collaborating with renowned Hollywood directors. The episode also featured Mumford & Sons as the musical guest, adding to the show’s eclectic mix of performances.