It seems like this topic has been coming up a lot lately here at LRM, but it’s with pride that I share with you another example of broken glass ceilings. It’s just been announced that Saturday Night Live, the NBC staple that has amused audiences- and has highjacked the national conversation on several occasions- has just cast their very first Latina.
When Melissa Villaseñor appears on the sketch comedy show for its 42nd season, the Los Angeles comedian of Mexican descent will be the first Latina cast member in the show’s illustrious history. And she’s got chops. The 28 year old Villaseñor was a finalist on America’s Got Talent, and garnered lots of attention because of her fantastic impressions of just about anyone you could think of.
Check out some her impressions right here:
Congratulations are in order for Ms. Villaseñor. As I’ve said all along, this kind of stuff is just going to become more and more common. Soon, it won’t even be newsworthy- which is something I, personally, can’t wait for.
This is the future, boys and girls.
And before anyone here makes any kind of “It’s about time” comment, just remember: No one owes anybody anything. Villaseñor got this by working hard, hustling, earning the spot, and- I’m sure- being in the right place at the right time with enough preparation and confidence to seize that moment.
But I’ll throw a bone to the cynics in the room: The show did recently come under fire for allowing Presidential candidate Donald Trump to host, amidst his polarizing campaign where he’s been especially hard on Mexican immigrants. So there’s that.
Saturday Night Live returns with new episodes on October 1.
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SOURCE: THR