SNL Comedian Honors Former Teacher in Latest Skit

Marcello Hernández based his 'Mr. Fronzi' character on his middle school theology teacher, Angie Fernandez.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 3:54pm

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Comedian Marcello Hernández revealed that his recent Saturday Night Live skit featuring the character 'Mr. Fronzi' was inspired by his former middle school theology teacher, Angie Fernandez. Hernández had previously imitated Fernandez's charismatic teaching style in his high school's senior skit, and this latest SNL portrayal marked the second time Fernandez got to witness Hernández's impersonation of her. To commemorate the occasion, Hernández flew Fernandez to New York to watch the SNL episode live.

Why it matters

This story highlights the personal connections and inspirations that can shape the creative work of comedians and entertainers. Hernández's tribute to his former teacher not only pays homage to an influential figure in his life, but also showcases how real-life experiences can translate into memorable on-stage performances.

The details

In the Feb. 28 SNL skit, Hernández played the role of Mr. Fronzi, a dramatic and charismatic teacher who discovers his students' love for him after a series of misunderstandings. Hernández revealed that this character was based on his former middle school theology teacher, Angie Fernandez. The comedian had previously channeled Fernandez's teaching style in his high school's senior skit in 2015, which featured similar comedic scenarios about a morning coffee mishap.

  • Hernández played the 'Mr. Fronzi' character on the Saturday, Feb. 28 episode of SNL.
  • Hernández had previously imitated Fernandez in his high school's senior skit in 2015.

The players

Marcello Hernández

A 28-year-old comedian who is a cast member on Saturday Night Live.

Angie Fernandez

Hernández's former middle school theology teacher, whose charismatic teaching style inspired the 'Mr. Fronzi' character.

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What they’re saying

“We flew [Fernandez] up this weekend to see her voice live on [SNL] in Mr. Fronzi.”

— Marcello Hernández

What’s next

Hernández plans to continue honoring his former teacher by keeping her involved in his creative process, potentially including her in future SNL sketches or other projects.

The takeaway

This story demonstrates the lasting impact that teachers can have on their students, even years later. Hernández's tribute to his former teacher Angie Fernandez not only highlights the personal connections that shape an entertainer's work, but also shows the power of acknowledging and celebrating the influential figures in one's life.