Colin Jost

Colin Kelly Jost (born June 29, 1982) is a five-time Writers Guild Award-winning and Peabody Award-winning American comedian, writer, actor, and New York Times bestselling author. Globally recognized as the co-anchor of "Weekend Update" on NBC’s Saturday Night Live (SNL), Jost holds the distinction of being the longest-tenured anchor in the iconic news satire segment's history. A former SNL head writer, Jost has spent over two decades shaping American late-night television, seamlessly blending razor-sharp political satire, observational humor, and deadpan comedic delivery. For corporate event buyers, keynote platforms, and executive galas, Jost offers an elite comedic voice, delivering masterclass insights on satire, creative team leadership, media production, and writing for live television.

Early Life & Breakout

Raised in Staten Island, New York, Jost developed a passion for writing and media at an early age, working as a teen correspondent for the Staten Island Advance. He attended Regis High School in Manhattan, serving as editor of the school newspaper, before pursuing higher education at Harvard University. At Harvard, Jost majored in History and Literature, graduating cum laude in 2004. During his collegiate tenure, he served as president of the world-famous comedy publication The Harvard Lampoon, honing the sharp comedic voice that would define his professional career.

Directly out of university, Jost wrote for Nickelodeon's Shorties Watchin' Shorties before joining NBC's Saturday Night Live as a staff writer in 2005 at just 22 years old. His exceptional writing talent quickly propelled him through the show's ranks, leading to his promotion as co-head writer in 2012—a position he held across multiple landmark seasons.

Career Highlights & Accomplishments

In March 2014, Jost stepped in front of the camera as co-anchor of "Weekend Update," succeeding Seth Meyers. Joined shortly thereafter by Michael Che, the duo forged a legendary comedic partnership defined by sharp banter, live joke exchanges, and political satire. In 2021, Jost officially became the longest-serving "Weekend Update" anchor in SNL history, having anchored over 200 episodes of the iconic franchise.

Beyond his television dominance, Jost is a successful screenwriter, film actor, and author. He wrote and starred in the coming-of-age comedy feature Staten Island Summer (2015) and featured in major films including How to Be Single (2016) and Warner Bros.' hybrid blockbuster Tom & Jerry (2021). In 2020, Jost released his memoir, A Very Punchable Face: A Memoir, which became an instant New York Times bestseller and earned critical acclaim for its witty, candid reflection on his life and late-night career.

Throughout his career, Jost’s work has garnered 14 Primetime Emmy Award nominations, five Writers Guild of America (WGA) Awards, and a prestigious Peabody Award for excellence in television broadcasting.

Current Endeavors & Legacy

In addition to his ongoing duties on Saturday Night Live, Jost has expanded his hosting portfolio across major broadcast and streaming platforms. NBC tapped Jost for high-profile Olympic coverage in Tahiti, where his charismatic, humorous commentary during the Paris Olympic surfing events captured national headlines. He was also selected as the host of Sony Pictures Television’s game show franchise Pop Culture Jeopardy! on Amazon Prime Video.

Off-screen, Jost remains a premier headline stand-up comedian, regularly performing sold-out theater dates across North America and co-hosting major charity galas, including events supporting Staten Island healthcare initiatives and pediatric health programs. For corporate event planners, brand buyers, and entertainment venues, Colin Jost delivers a highly polished, universally recognized headlining presence, offering sharp cultural commentary and top-tier comedic entertainment.