Marcello Hernandez is a Cuban-Dominican-American stand-up comedian, writer, and actor who rose to widespread prominence as a cast member on NBC's Saturday Night Live. Born in Miami, Florida, he built a dedicated following through his sharp cultural observations and short-form digital comedy before securing his spot on late-night television.
Since joining Saturday Night Live in 2022 during its 48th season, Hernandez has transitioned from a featured player to a repertory cast member. He stands out for his viral recurring sketches, high-profile film and television roles, and his distinctive perspective on modern generational and cultural experiences.
Early Life and Background in Miami
Raised in Miami, Hernandez grew up navigating a rich multicultural environment. His mother is of Cuban descent and his father is Dominican. This dual heritage heavily shapes his comedic voice, inspiring routines about family dynamics, language barriers, and the specific nuances of being raised by immigrant parents.
Before committing full-time to entertainment, Hernandez focused heavily on athletics. He attended Belen Jesuit Preparatory School in Miami, where he excelled on the soccer pitch. His athletic talent even led him to train briefly with the U15 Dominican Republic National Team. He later attended John Carroll University in Ohio, playing college soccer before stepping away from sports during his sophomore year. He graduated in 2019 with a degree in entrepreneurship and communication.
Social Media Roots and Stand-Up Launch
Upon finishing college, Hernandez relocated to New York City to immerse himself in the competitive world of live stand-up. Prior to his move, he gained traction online by producing short comedic sketches. He contributed to regional digital projects like the Miami lifestyle and culture platform Only in Dade, developing a knack for punchy, relatable storytelling.
On TikTok and Instagram, his routines focused on food, family expectations, and generational tropes. These digital clips built a massive foundational audience. In 2022, his momentum caught the attention of industry scouts, earning him a selection as a "New Face of Comedy" at the prestigious Just for Laughs festival. That same momentum propelled him directly onto the radar of Saturday Night Live.
Breakthrough on Saturday Night Live
Hernandez made history as one of the show's younger performers, capturing attention as a breakout star. His early seasons featured sharp delivery in ensemble sketches, but his viral breakthrough arrived through recurring characters that showcased his distinct persona.
- Domingo: One of his most recognizable creations, this recurring character became a viral sensation as the secret paramour in dramatic relationship sketches.
- Weekend Update Appearances: Hernandez frequently appears on the Weekend Update desk, delivering high-energy segments that poke fun at dating culture, modern masculinity, and cultural expectations.
- Celebrity Impressions: His sharp ear for mimicry led to praised impressions, including a viral portrayal of comedian Sebastian Maniscalco and a parody of iconic television host Don Francisco.
His growth on the show culminated in his promotion to repertory status ahead of the show's milestone 50th season. Detailed updates on his television work can be found on Wikipedia.
Expanding Into Film, Hosting, and Streaming Specials
Beyond sketch comedy, Hernandez has steadily expanded his resume across film and live event hosting. He secured roles in major comedy sequels, appearing as Esteban in Happy Gilmore 2 and taking on voice acting work in animated projects like The Angry Birds Movie 3 and Shrek 5.
In 2026, Hernandez stepped onto a massive global stage by hosting the ESPY Awards in New York City. Shortly after, he released his debut stand-up comedy special, American Boy, on Netflix. The special cemented his transition from a promising sketch performer to a headlining stand-up act capable of carrying a feature-length solo hour. Track his upcoming projects through TV Insider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Marcello Hernandez from?
He was born and raised in Miami, Florida, and frequently draws inspiration from his upbringing in a Cuban and Dominican household.
When did Marcello Hernandez join SNL?
He joined the cast of Saturday Night Live as a featured player for the show's 48th season in September 2022 and was later promoted to repertory status.
What is Marcello Hernandez's Netflix special called?
His debut Netflix stand-up comedy special is titled American Boy, released in January 2026.
Did Marcello Hernandez play soccer professionally?
No. While he played high school soccer in Miami, trained with the U15 Dominican Republic National Team, and played briefly at John Carroll University, he quit the sport to pursue comedy.
