Paul Rudd's SNL episode did not have a live audience

Paul Rudd hosting a gig for Saturday Night Live’s latest episode was different this time — without an actual live audience! Reportedly, it was announced before the show that the inclusion of live audience will be cancelled on account of a spike in Omicron cases. A statement was shared on SNL’s Twitter handle, which mentioned the show would be taped with a limited cast and crew.

The statement released regarding the same read, “Due to the recent spike in the Omicron variant and out of an abundance of caution, there will be no live audience for tonight’s taping of Saturday Night Live and the show will have limited cast and crew. The show continues to follow all government safety guidelines in addition to a rigorous testing protocol.” SNL’s recent decision comes after several other live shows were cancelled in New York, including Broadway shows.