Jan Hooks SNL

Jan Hooks SNL, The women of “Saturday NIght Live” never get the credit their due. At least, that was the case until Tina Fey became an international superstar as she transitioned from “SNL” head writer/performer to “30 Rock” producer /star/multi-award winner. How appropriate, then, that one of “SNL’s” most underrrated funny ladies will join Fey on tonight’s “30 Rock.”

Jan Hooks stops by tonight to play Verna, the manipulative mother of Jenna (Jane Krakowski). Jenna prepares for Verna’s visit by getting “how-to-say-no-to-Mom” advice from Jack, who has had his share of mommy issues. Verna, though, seems to be all apologies and warm fuzzies, wanting to make up for a lifetime of controlling Jenna.

Hooks’ larger-than-life personality is a great fit for the exaggerated reality of “30 Rock,” and her scenes with Baldwin are especially hoot-worthy.

I loved Hooks on “SNL” and “Designing Women,” where she took over for the departing Jean Smart. Hooks needs more work, people! Verna, at least, deserves a return visit.