'SNL' Cast Makes Direct Plea to President-elect Donald Trump in Post-Election Cold Open
A multitude of "Saturday Night Live" cast members graced the legendary Studio 8H stage in New York, marking the inaugural episode post-presidential election. They humorously addressed President-elect Donald Trump, pleading not to be counted among his "political enemies."
The skit began with a somber tone, acknowledging that for "many viewers tuning in," the election results were, as cast member Ego Nwodim described, "shocking, and even horrifying." Kenan Thompson alluded to Trump as someone who "demanded retribution against his adversaries," with Nwodim noting the absence of protection for those courageous enough to oppose him.
The atmosphere lightened when Thompson quipped, "And that is why we at 'SNL' would like to say to Donald Trump, we… have been with you all along!" The cast jovially declared their support for Trump leading up to the election. Bowen Yang asserted, "We have never wavered in our support of you!" Heidi Gardner humorously claimed she voted for him "fifty times" in the pivotal state of Pennsylvania.
Thompson added, "So if you're keeping some kind of list of your enemies, then…" followed by Marcello Hernandez completing, "we should not be on that list."
The episode introduced a fresh take on James Austin Johnson's Trump impersonation, renowned for its political parodies. Johnson emerged as the upgraded "hot jacked Trump," wearing a red headband with impressively muscular arms. "They finally got the body right," he remarked, mimicking Trump and flexing. "From now on, we're going to do a very flattering portrayal of Trump because he's frankly my hero."
"SNL" veteran Dana Carvey made a surprise appearance in the opening skit, but not as President Joe Biden, whom he has impersonated since Season 50 commenced. Instead, Carvey took on the role of Elon Musk.
This week's episode was hosted by Bill Burr, with musical performances by Mk.gee. "Saturday Night Live" broadcasts on NBC at 11:30 p.m. EDT/8:30 p.m. PDT.
