Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce brought his signature charm—and a touch of Arrowhead Stadium’s legendary tailgate culture—to his hosting debut on “Saturday Night Live” in March 2023. Cast member Heidi Gardner, a lifelong Chiefs fan, recently shared behind-the-scenes stories from Kelce’s unforgettable time on the iconic sketch show during her appearance on the “Not Skinny But Not Fat” podcast.
Gardner, who has been a part of the SNL cast since 2017, revealed how Kelce joined her friends and family for a pre-show barbecue tailgate in her dressing room, a nod to Kansas City’s renowned game-day rituals. The actor and comedian couldn’t contain her excitement about hosting her NFL hero, describing the experience as “so fun.”
The Tailgate That Almost Didn’t Happen
For days leading up to Kelce’s hosting gig, Gardner teased him about the tailgate she planned to hold in her dressing room. “I was like, ‘I’m gonna have a tailgate in my room because Arrowhead Stadium is famous for tailgating,’” Gardner said, explaining the tradition. “People show up early, smoke barbecue all morning, and share their food.”
Despite the invitations, Gardner wasn’t sure Kelce would actually show up, especially given the tight schedule on show day. But to her surprise, he made sure to contribute in his own way.
“That morning, one of the talent guys knocked on my door and handed me cans of tequila sodas from Travis for the tailgate,” Gardner recalled. “It was such a thoughtful touch.”
As the show neared airtime, Gardner had just finished her makeup when she started receiving texts from her guests. “My brothers were like, ‘We’re here!’ And then I get another text with a picture of Travis and Jason Kelce in my dressing room, eating barbecue,” she said, laughing at the unexpected sight. “Everyone was freaking out.”
Gardner couldn’t help but marvel at the moment. “I just know for a fact that’s the only host in SNL history that’s ever tailgated before hosting,” she joked.
A Super Bowl Victory That Made It Happen
Gardner revealed it wasn’t easy convincing SNL creator and producer Lorne Michaels to invite Kelce to host the show. “I had been campaigning for a couple of years,” she admitted. “I kept saying, ‘He’s funny, he’s charming, he’d be great!’”
However, Michaels had one stipulation: Kelce would need to win another Super Bowl before he got the call. The tight end delivered in February 2023, helping the Chiefs secure their second championship in four years. “It was so much pressure to ask,” Gardner said, “but then he went and won the Super Bowl!”
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A Charismatic Star in the Making
Kelce’s hosting debut was a hit, showcasing his comedic timing and natural charisma. His brother, Jason, even joined him for a memorable sketch, making it a family affair. The NFL star’s performance left such a strong impression that he was invited back for a cameo later in the year amid the buzz surrounding his high-profile romance with Taylor Swift.
Since his SNL debut, Kelce has continued to explore his talents off the field. He starred in the FX show Grotesquerie and has a role lined up in the upcoming Happy Gilmore 2.
Chasing More Glory
While Kelce’s foray into entertainment has been a resounding success, football remains his top priority. He’s currently leading the Chiefs in their quest for a fourth Super Bowl ring, with hopes of adding another championship to his already stellar career.
Gardner, meanwhile, continues to cheer for her hometown hero. “It was such a special experience,” she said. “I’ll never forget the day Travis Kelce brought Arrowhead to 30 Rock.”
