Justin Timberlake’s Pitch to Beyoncé for ‘Single Ladies’ SNL
A significant aspect of the creative process at Saturday Night Live involves persuading the week’s host or musical guest to participate in sketches that can range from the delightfully absurd to the potentially cringe-worthy. In November 2008, renowned guest Justin Timberlake found himself facing this challenge when cast member Andy Samberg reached out to see if he was available to join a comedic bit that fellow cast member Bobby Moynihan had envisioned. This scenario illustrates the unpredictable nature of live television and the bold creativity that defines SNL’s legacy.
“He mentioned that Bobby Moynihan had a fantastic concept for a sketch featuring the three of us as Beyoncé’s backup dancers, a concept that surprisingly didn’t make the final cut,” Timberlake recounted during the enlightening three-hour documentary Ladies & Gentleman… 50 Years of SNL Music, which premiered on NBC on January 27. “I was like, ‘Are we really talking about full leotards?’ and he replied, ‘Absolutely.’ At that moment, I realized how amusing this could be. We simply had to make this happen.”
However, while Timberlake and his comedic counterparts were ready to dive into the sketch, the real challenge lay in getting the iconic Beyoncé to join in on the fun. In the detailed exploration of the show’s musical history, co-directed by the Oscar-winning drummer Questlove from The Roots, current SNL star Bowen Yang pointed out that pitching a sketch requiring the involvement of the musical guest can often lead to unpredictable outcomes and awkward moments.
Initially, Beyoncé was not enthusiastic about participating in the sketch. According to Timberlake, her reluctance was palpable.
“She was incredibly polite, yet her hesitation was unmistakable,” Timberlake shared. “When I say hesitant, trust me, she was not on board at all. I found myself wondering if she realized just how hilarious this moment could be and how beloved it would ultimately become.” Committed to making the sketch a reality, Timberlake felt it was essential to demonstrate to the pop superstar just how serious he was about the comedic endeavor.
“I donned the leotard, heels, and pantyhose, and wrapped myself in a robe,” he recalled. “Then, I confidently walked over to her door, threw the robe aside, and struck a pose with my hands on my hips, leading her to exclaim, ‘No you didn’t!’” Ultimately, Beyoncé agreed to participate, marking the beginning of a memorable moment in SNL history.
In the final sketch, which unfortunately isn’t available on YouTube, host Paul Rudd portrays the director of the “Single Ladies” music video who introduces Beyoncé to her new backup dancers, whom she approaches with a hint of nervousness.
“Oh look, don’t fret about the other dancers, B-Town,” Rudd reassures her. “I personally selected these professionals.” The three men then burst in, dressed in their black leotards, white tights, and black heels, attempting to reassure Beyoncé with their absurdity, with Moynihan quipping that they’re “warmed up, like biscuits,” and Timberlake following up with the equally ridiculous comment, “Yeah, dance biscuits!”
The scene quickly transitions to the trio hilariously gyrating around Beyoncé, leading to her repeatedly halting the filming until Rudd finally confesses that they are, in fact, his stepsons, whom his wife insists he should spend more time with. “Oh, I didn’t realize these were your sons,” Beyoncé responds. “That’s very commendable.”
“So, does that mean they can be in your music video?” Rudd inquires. “Hell no,” Beyoncé retorts, delivering the punchline that perfectly encapsulates the whimsical nature of the sketch.
You can now stream Ladies & Gentlemen… 50 Years of SNL Music on Peacock, allowing you to relive the rich musical heritage of this iconic show.