First Thanksgiving

In this multi-layered satirical sketch set at the "First Thanksgiving," Pocahontas (Melissa Villaseñor) brings her 30-year-old boyfriend John Smith (Beck Bennett) to meet her Native American family for Thanksgiving dinner. While trying to make a good impression, John faces skepticism from Grandpa (Will Ferrell), who plays a "concerned grandpa" character warning about colonists being "illegals" who will take their land and spread disease through blankets—predictions that were historically accurate. The sketch cleverly parallels modern-day political debates about immigration and media bias (with references to Fox News versus NBC's peacock) with colonial history. It also addresses uncomfortable historical facts, like Pocahontas being only 12 years old when she met the 30-year-old John Smith. The sketch finds common ground between John and the family through their shared inability to digest corn, before Will Ferrell breaks the fourth wall to address the sketch's controversial elements and wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.

The sketch was praised by viewers for its clever multiple layers of satire. Features Will Ferrell breaking the fourth wall at the end to address the controversial aspects of the sketch. Grandpa's shirt is covered in Human Rights Campaign logos. Over 10 million views on YouTube with 161,000+ likes. Many commenters praised it as reminiscent of "old SNL" style humor from the 1990s.