The 'SNL' alum served as a full-time cast member between 2000 and 2007.
Maya Rudolph is returning to the Studio 8H stage in a major way.
In a promo ahead of this week's Saturday Night Live, the actress comes out of an SNL closet after 17 years to host the show with musical guest Vampire Weekend.
In the clip, cast members Andrew Dismukes and Chloe Troast are walking the halls of 30 Rock when they suddenly hear strange laughter coming from a closet door.
Upon opening the door, the two discover a surprised Rudolph.
"Oh, hello there. I wasn't expecting visitors," the SNL alum says.
When asked how long she's been there, the 51-year-old answers since 2007 -- when she ended her tenure at SNL.
Rudolph served as a full-time cast member between 2000 and 2007. She previously hosted the sketch show in 2012 and 2021.
"I never left," Rudolph continues. "Well, why would I leave? I have everything I need here. My books, my porridge, and my dear friend Kenny."
The Bridesmaids star has seemingly been absent from hosting the show for far too long because her "dear friend Kenny" is actually a mop with googly eyes.
After she is reminded that she's hosting this week, Rudolph is brought back into reality.
"Would you guys mind closing the door?" Rudolph asks. "I'm going to need to freshen up."
Dismukes and Troast give Rudolph her privacy, but almost as soon as they close the door, Rudolph reappears outside of it. This time, the Loot star is dressed up and ready to take on her SNL hosting duties.
"Hey, guys. See you Saturday!" Rudolph tells the startled duo.
Rudolph will mark her third time hosting SNL on Saturday at 11:30 p.m. ET / 8:30 p.m. PT on NBC.
Jake Gyllenhaal will host SNL's season 49 finale with musical guest Sabrina Carpenter on Saturday, May 18.
RELATED CONTENT:
