Glen Powell Hosts SNL, Invites UPS Driver to Prove He’s Not Lying

Glen Powell made his long-awaited debut as host of Saturday Night Live on March 15, 2024, a moment four years in the making. To illustrate the surreal nature of his journey, Powell invited a UPS driver named Mitch, who had once questioned whether the actor was telling the truth about being offered the hosting role. The humorous revelation captivated both the audience and viewers at home.

The story began when Powell, known for his role in Top Gun: Maverick, received the hosting opportunity for SNL’s Christmas special in 2021. At that moment, a UPS driver had delivered a package to his home. Celebrating the news, Powell and his family took a group photo with the driver. However, when the film’s release was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, executive producer Lorne Michaels informed Powell that without the success of Top Gun, “no one will know who the f— you are.” Consequently, the hosting invitation was rescinded, leaving Mitch to believe that Powell had fabricated the entire story.

“Four years later, this UPS driver was going around saying Glen Powell is a liar,” Powell remarked during his monologue. The actor emphasized that the experience of hosting was not just about the spotlight but about dispelling the doubts held by Mitch. He explained how he managed to bring Mitch to the studio audience, saying, “This is real: my sisters tracked him down—because the women in my family are terrifying—and they found the cell number of this guy.” To prove his authenticity, Powell flew Mitch to New York, humorously noting, “I don’t know how Running Man is going to do, yet.”

Mitch, who initially thought the invitation was a scam, ultimately joined Powell in the audience, marking a significant reunion. The two men even recreated the photo they had taken years ago, a moment that underscored the long journey they had both traveled. “I had to wait my entire life plus four years to be here, but if I know anything, it’s that the best things in life don’t happen overnight,” Powell quipped, adding, “And no one knows that better than UPS.”

The lively atmosphere of Studio 8H served as the perfect backdrop for Powell’s monologue, which blended humor and heartfelt sincerity. His story resonated not only with the audience present but also with viewers across the globe. The anecdote highlighted the importance of trust and the lengths one might go to validate their claims, making it a memorable start to what Powell hopes will be a successful hosting stint.

As the night progressed, Powell’s journey from aspiring host to reality showcased the unpredictable nature of fame and the connections formed along the way. His ability to turn a potentially embarrassing moment into a light-hearted celebration left a lasting impression on fans and attendees alike.