Saturday Night Live* kicked off its milestone 50th season with a bang, featuring Maya Rudolph reprising her beloved portrayal of Vice President Kamala Harris, a role she has perfected since 2019.
In a lively cold-open sketch that parodied a Harris rally, Rudolph delivered her signature free-spirited Harris impression. "Well, well, well," she exclaimed to the audience. "Look who fell out of that coconut tree. Your fun aunt has returned!"
The opening sketch was packed with notable political figures from the 2024 campaign. SNL alum Dana Carvey returned to play a bumbling President Joe Biden, while comedian Jim Gaffigan appeared as Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, playing up his Midwestern charm and showing off a suit jacket with a Kirkland label from Menards. Cast member Bowen Yang took on the role of Senator J.D. Vance, Donald Trump’s 2024 running mate.
Rudolph’s Harris was also joined by former SNL cast member Andy Samberg, who appeared as her husband, Doug Emhoff. Samberg’s Emhoff was ready to get festive: "I, for one, can’t wait to decorate the White House for Christmas. The theme will be Hanukkah."
The sketch also featured James Austin Johnson’s uncanny Donald Trump impression at a campaign rally, with Trump addressing the crowd and joking, “I see you trying to leave, but the doors are locked,” referencing the famously lengthy rallies Trump is known for.
SNL’s 50th season opener was hosted by Emmy-winning actress Jean Smart. The long-running show has remained a unique blend of political satire, broad comedy, and pop culture moments since its debut in 1975, making it an enduring success. Over the years, SNL has featured guest appearances from political figures like Bernie Sanders, Hillary Clinton, and even Donald Trump, who hosted during his 2015 presidential run.
As the show marks its 50th season, there’s speculation about what’s next for its legendary creator and executive producer Lorne Michaels, now 79 years old. Michaels has hinted in past interviews that he plans to stay with the show at least until the 50th anniversary special in February 2025. However, he remains open to continuing as long as he feels capable.
Season 50 promises more excitement, with upcoming hosts including Nate Bargatze, Ariana Grande, and Michael Keaton, alongside musical performances by Coldplay, Stevie Nicks, and Billie Eilish.
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