Radcliffe Jokes Lana Del Rey Had 'Last Laugh' After SNL Debut
Daniel Radcliffe is revisiting a memorable moment from his Saturday Night Live hosting stint in 2012, playfully acknowledging that Lana Del Rey arguably had the 'last laugh' after her famously awkward musical performance on the same show.
Radcliffe, speaking in a recent interview, recalled hosting SNL alongside Del Rey, whose rendition of “Video Games” became an instant viral sensation—but not for the right reasons. Critics and viewers alike found the performance stiff and uncomfortable, leading to widespread mockery and a rapid decline in Del Rey’s public image at the time.
“It was a weird night,” Radcliffe said. “I remember being backstage and thinking, ‘Wow, that was… something.’ And then, of course, it just exploded online.” He added, “But she’s obviously gone on to do incredibly well, so I think she probably had the last laugh.”
The 2012 SNL appearance remains a significant moment in pop culture history, often cited as an early example of the internet's ability to amplify and critique live performances. While initially damaging to Del Rey’s career, the notoriety arguably contributed to her long-term success, transforming her into a cult icon and eventually a mainstream star.
Radcliffe’s comments demonstrate a lighthearted perspective on a shared experience and a recognition of Del Rey's subsequent triumph. He has previously spoken about the pressures of fame and the challenges of navigating public perception, likely contributing to his understanding of the situation.
