Maybelline Taps ‘SNL’ Alums to Lead New Campaign — See Behind-the-Scenes Video (Exclusive)

What do Maybelline and Saturday Night Live have in common? The question may sound like the set-up to a sneaky punchline, but the real answer is two talented comedians: Cecily Strong and Vanessa Bayer.

In honor of SNL's 50th anniversary season, the talented alums worked with NBCUniversal and Maybelline New York on a series of ads promoting four of the makeup company's "most iconic" products while paying "tribute to the show’s creative legacy while highlighting the intersection of comedy and beauty in pop culture," according to Michael Alvarez, SVP, Agency Partnerships, NBCUniversal.

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In an exclusive sneak peek shared with Parade, director Megan Brotherton explains the goal of the campaign was to "tell the story" with the signature comedic style of the SNL stars—and it came together "quite seamlessly."

"Working with Cecily and Vanessa has been a dream," Brotherton added. "They completely deliver. It's exactly what you would expect."

In the clip, Strong, 40, struts through the set in a swanky black dress, all glammed up for the cameras. Her "stunning" ensemble complements the two characters she portrays in the upcoming commercials. Strong's first ad for the brand will debut on Monday, Jan. 20, and will highlight Maybelline's Sky High Mascara. Her second feature will focus on its Baby Lips line.

Related: Who's in the 'SNL' Five-Timers' Club—and Who Could Be Next?

Bayer's two ad slots were actually released earlier this season, in the fall of 2024, putting what Brotherton called her "sweetheart essence" and "playful" nature on full display while highlighting two other Maybelline products: its Superstay Matte Ink Lip Color and Instant Age Rewind Concealer.

In one ad, Bayer, 43, is put through an escalating series of hilariously aggressive events in an attempt to ruin her lipstick—but it doesn't budge. Another jokes, "erasing last night's [bad] choices" is as easy as using Maybelline's Instant Rewind concealer.

“Maybelline New York is thrilled to be the official makeup sponsor for Saturday Night Live’s milestone 50th anniversary season! Together, we’re showcasing the dynamic intersection of beauty and comedy, bringing bold, vibrant storytelling to life along the way," said Jessie Feinstein, SVP of Marketing, Maybelline New York, in a statement. "Following the enthusiastic response to the brand’s SNL content with Vanessa Bayer, we are excited to debut new sketches starring SNL icon, Cecily Strong, and continue to embrace the humor and nostalgia that make up essential pillars of pop culture."

Funny commercials aside, Saturday Night Live's milestone season has been commemorated with a "seven-month long party" that includes memorable musical guests, a Radio City special and a four-episode docu-series.

Next: 10 Famous Comedians Who Auditioned for 'SNL' But Didn't Make the Cut