SNL’s Cold Open Takes Aim at Donald Trump
In a striking commentary on the recent 2024 presidential election, Saturday Night Live took to the stage to address Donald Trump’s victory in its latest episode. Hosted by Bill Burr with musical guest Mk.gee, the show opened with a somber tone reflecting the shock many viewers felt over the election results.
In the cold open, cast members Bowen Yang and Ego Nwodim articulated the sentiment of disbelief, describing the outcome as “shocking and horrifying.” Kenan Thompson and Heidi Gardner added to the gravity of the moment by highlighting that despite Trump’s history of legal challenges, including efforts to “forcibly overturn” the 2020 results, he has returned to power with an “overwhelming majority.”
The SNL cast candidly expressed concerns about the implications of Trump’s return to leadership, emphasizing that fewer people would now dare to challenge him as there would be diminished checks on his power. However, the mood shifted as Kenan directly addressed Trump, asserting that SNL, despite its comedic portrayal of him, has always been in his corner.
In a humorous twist, cast members Sarah Sherman and Marcello Hernandez attempted to reassure the audience by claiming their allegiance, stating they had even voted for Trump. Colin Jost jokingly turned the tables on Michael Che by referring to him as the “lamestream media,” a nod to the term popularized by Sarah Palin, highlighting the show’s satirical nature.
The cold open also featured a new and improved impersonation of Trump by James Austin Johnson, alongside a surprise appearance by Dana Carvey as Elon Musk in a “Dark MAGA” hat. The cast wrapped up the segment with an unexpected motivational message to the young men who supported Trump’s comeback, cleverly borrowing lyrics from a well-known Village People song.
Overall, the SNL cold open was a masterclass in satire, resonating with audiences who appreciated the balance of humor and commentary on such a significant political moment. Viewers took to social media to share their feedback, with many praising the show’s ability to address a serious topic while still providing much-needed laughter.
One viewer noted the sharpness of their comedic delivery, saying it was the perfect amount of humor to tackle a difficult subject. Another chimed in about how much they needed a laugh in these times. The reaction was a testament to how humor can be a vital coping mechanism during challenging political climates.
In conclusion, SNL successfully navigated the turbulent waters of the recent election results, offering audiences both a moment of levity and a pointed critique of the political landscape. For those who tuned in, this segment served as a reminder of the power of comedy to comment on real-world events while providing a much-needed laugh.