Kerry Washington to host ‘Saturday Night Live’ Nov. 2

Kerry Washington’s quest for global domination continues apace: The “Scandal” star will host “Saturday Night Live” Nov. 2, NBC announced Wednesday.

It will be the Emmy-nominated actress’ first time hosting the long-running sketch show. Given the enormous popularity of “Scandal,” centered on a D.C. crisis manager having an affair with the president, and the current real-life malaise in the nation’s capital, “SNL’s” writing staff should have plenty of fodder.

And not that she’ll need them, but Washington could turn to musical guest Eminem, making his sixth visit to the show, for pointers.

VIDEO: Live chat with Kerry Washington

The timing of Washington’s appearance also couldn’t be more apt, given a minor tempest that flared up following an interview that cast member Kenan Thompson gave to TV Guide. When asked about the diversity problem at “SNL” -- specifically, the fact that the show has not had an African American female cast member in six years and has only had four in its entire 39 years on the air -- Thompson suggested there simply weren’t enough talented comedians in that demographic.

Not surprisingly, the comment has been met with fierce criticism. Thompson may want to give Olivia Pope a call.

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