tech
January 25, 2026
No Cap: ‘SNL’ Just Killed Gen Z Slang
Last night’s “Weekend Update” segment explained how the show benefits from making pop culture a little bit cringe.
TL;DR
- Marcello Hernández educated Colin Jost on Gen Z slang, including 'chopped' (visually unappealing) and 'glo-up' (a positive transformation).
- Hernández explained that Gen Z slang primarily derives from African American slang, becoming popular with younger demographics before wider adoption.
- The 'death' of slang, like 'cap' and 'chopped,' occurs when older generations or mainstream figures adopt it, as illustrated by a mock headstone on 'Weekend Update.'
- SNL's ability to incorporate and reflect this cultural cycle of slang helps it stay relevant, though it also risks making terms obsolete.
- The show uses slang to appear current, a strategy that is essential for its reinvention and for retaining a younger audience amidst cast changes and evolving comedic styles.
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