Miles Teller’s SNL Promo Nearly Turns Deadly in Sketch

Saturday Night Live’s newest episodes once again spotlight the show’s recent cast additions, with this weekend’s promo featuring a tense moment when Jeremy Culhane nearly chokes during a bit. The Miles Teller SNL promo previews an upcoming sketch and highlights the creative energy behind the scenes at the show’s New York studio.

Unexpected Hazard During Comedy Sketch Pitch

The promo opens in the writers’ room where Miles Teller collaborates with Chloe Fineman, Ben Marshall, and Jeremy Culhane. Teller pitches a quirky character named Cool Pope, who performs baptisms in a hot tub and engages in other unconventional antics. Meanwhile, Culhane is seen attempting to eat hot dogs rapidly, inspired by competitive eater Joey Chestnut’s technique of dipping them in water to ease consumption.

Ben Marshall explains the reason for Culhane’s hot dog eating practice:

“Jeremy is training for the big hot dog eating contest,”

and adds,

“July 4th is right around the corner.”

Despite multitasking, Culhane stays fully engaged with Teller’s pitch and even impresses him with his detailed recollection of the sketch.

Culhane describes the Cool Pope concept, saying,

“The sketch is ‘Cool Pope.’ Your robes are made out of jeans. The Popemobile is a skateboard. And for communion, instead of wine and bread, you’re eating pizza and drinking a tallboy of ice-cold malt liquor.”

Praising his attentiveness, Teller responds,

“You really are a good listener, Jeremy,”

to which Culhane confidently replies, “I know. I’m the best.”

A Close Call During the Promo Filming

Just as Culhane finishes his proud remark, he suddenly begins choking on the food, creating a real moment of panic among the group. Cast and crew rush to his aid, calling for medics in an effort to save him. This dramatic incident sharply contrasts with the promo’s comedic tone and brings attention to the unpredictability of live sketch performances.

Miles Teller
Image of: Miles Teller

SNL’s Strategy of Showcasing New Talent

This promo continues a recurring approach SNL has taken all season by centering promos around its newer cast members. Earlier in the season, Amy Poehler had an awkward moment with three newcomers in a similar skit, while Ben Marshall recently appeared alongside season 51’s first host, Bad Bunny. This emphasis on fresh faces highlights SNL’s commitment to integrating new talent prominently into the show.

Miles Teller’s Return as Host and Upcoming Episodes

Miles Teller, returning to host SNL for the second time after his 2022 Season 48 debut, will be accompanied by Brandi Carlile, who makes her fourth musical guest appearance. Their episode kicks off a three-week series of shows, with Nikki Glaser and musical guest sombr making their debuts on November 8, followed by Glen Powell hosting and Olivia Dean as musical guest on November 15, both also newcomers to the program.

Implications for the Season and Audience Expectations

This latest promo not only offers a glimpse at the imaginative humor shaping the season but underscores the risks and dynamism behind SNL’s live format. With Miles Teller back as host and new talent being spotlighted consistently, viewers can expect a mix of fresh comedic takes and memorable performances in the weeks ahead.