Morgan Wallen returns to SNL after past scandals

Country music star Morgan Wallen is set to return to Saturday Night Live (SNL) next week. His comeback comes after several controversies, including his use of the N-word and a cancelled appearance in 2020. SNL announced that Wallen will perform alongside host Mikey Madison, who recently won an Oscar for Best Actress. Wallen's first scheduled appearance five years ago was cancelled when a video showed him partying without a mask during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, SNL replaced him with Jack White. Later, Wallen returned to the show in December 2020, where a sketch humorously addressed the initial cancellation. Wallen faced more trouble when a video surfaced of him using a racial slur after a night out. Despite the backlash, his music streams surged by 500%. Wallen later attempted to discuss the incident in an interview but did not follow through on a meeting with the NAACP. SNL's "Weekend Update" even made jokes about Wallen’s controversies. His career has continued without major repercussions, even after a separate incident involving a chair-throwing that led to jail time. SNL's decision to bring back Wallen appears aimed at attracting more viewers from conservative areas. Some fans have expressed dissatisfaction with his return, especially with Madison being the host. Social media reactions indicate mixed feelings about the combination.