Before Ayidy Bryant takes the stage this Saturday for her much-anticipated return to host the Spirit Awards, she had a valuable opportunity to refine her onstage skills. Having spent ten seasons as a cast member on SNL, Bryant recently wrapped up her debut performance on Broadway in the show All In. Initially, she faced some apprehension, but the experience turned out to be immensely enjoyable, largely thanks to the guidance of her seasoned co-stars Andrew Rannells and Lin-Manuel Miranda.
“Lin provided me with all sorts of advice, including the best paths to navigate through Midtown, and I struggled a bit with the bows,” she shared. “When you finish a good joke in comedy, that’s your moment to leave the stage. At award shows, everyone also seems eager to exit once it’s over. But on Broadway, after the final curtain, you have to return for bows, and I felt awkward doing it. Lin reassured me, saying, ‘It’s not about you; it’s a moment for the audience to express their thanks for your performance.’ I truly needed that perspective — it shifted how I viewed the moment.”
As she gears up for her second turn as a host at the Spirit Awards, we discussed her past experiences and what she hopes to achieve this year.
Reflecting on Last Year’s Hosting: Were You Nervous?
“I’m pleased to say that part of my anxiety has faded, and I’m grateful for it. It takes a lot to make me nervous now. Back in my early days on SNL, I would shake with nerves or feel sick beforehand. But being part of that show helped me shed most of that anxiety. I was, however, a bit anxious about walking in heels across the stage without tripping!”
What Do You Hope to Bring Back From Last Year?
“This time, I want to maintain the understanding that so many attendees have been to multiple award shows, hearing all sorts of jokes. I eased the pressure on myself to touch on every nominated movie, focusing instead on topics that feel light-hearted and fun. It’s a relaxed atmosphere since everyone is there to enjoy themselves and maybe indulge in a drink or two. I’m also thrilled to have my same co-writers, Sudi Green and Fran Gillespie, returning. We collaborated for years at SNL and they’re fantastic. It’s a blast to create content together again, just like old times.”
Are You Relieved Emilia Pérez Isn’t Nominated So You Can Avoid That Topic?
“I’ll be completely honest — I haven’t been closely following the latest buzz, but it seems like there’s quite a bit happening. I’m fine with letting other award shows tackle that subject; it’s not my concern this time around.”
How Does Audience Feedback Influence Your Monologue?
“I often cut jokes that I personally enjoy if they aren’t resonating with the audience. Last year, there was a particular bit I had tried to work into my stand-up routine, but it’s challenging when you’re addressing a random audience member and not the intended celebrity. Thankfully, having a team from SNL means we can adapt on the fly. Even as the show unfolds, we can tweak things based on unexpected moments, which adds an exciting energy to it.”
Everyone Liked Your Bit About Charles Melton’s Attractiveness Last Year. Who’s This Year’s ‘Heartthrob’?
“I feel like Anora has a few contenders. Yura Borisov is definitely a standout. There are so many interesting figures in this year’s films. I genuinely enjoy diving into this work and watching everything — Film Independent even provides links to many of the films. I’ve seen several in theaters as well, and Janet Planet really moved me. I watched it alone during the day, and afterward, I felt a bit shaken and wished someone could walk me home!”
Julio Torres, Your Former SNL Colleague, Is Nominated for Both Problemista and Fantasmas.
“I’m doing everything in my power to ensure Julio walks away with a win. If he doesn’t, I might just disrupt the entire event! In all seriousness, I adore Julio. I feel incredibly fortunate to have been at SNL when he first began and to have been part of his early projects. We worked on some ideas during my Fantasmas episode that originated at SNL but never went far. I’d love to compile a list of all those lost sketches; they haunt me like ghosts.”
What’s Key in Your Day-of-Hosting Routine?
“Last year, I felt somewhat disconnected from being at the beach. This year, especially considering the fires, I’m grateful we’re in Santa Monica. I plan to make a point of stepping outside, even if just for a minute. I want to avoid spending the whole day moving from my hotel room to my trailer and then to the venue.”
