'SNL' Returns With Maya Rudolph as Kamala Harris, Dana Carvey as Joe Biden, and Jim Gaffigan as Tim Walz
James Austin Johnson reprised his role as former President Trump with Bowen Yang as running mate JD Vance.
In a move that surprises absolutely no one, Saturday Night Live kicked off Season 50 with a cold open taking on the 2024 presidential election.
A lot of major events have occurred since SNL wrapped up its 49th season in May. The open managed to cover a lot of ground including President Joe Biden dropping out of the race as well as Vice President Kamala Harris becoming the Democratic nominee, while going viral for Brat summer and “coconut tree” memes along the way.
Maya Rudolph made her return as Vice President Harris, who joked about her laugh and use of Gen Z humor. Jim Gaffigan came out shortly after to portray running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz with his “big dad energy.”
Andy Samberg also made surprise appearances as second gentleman Douglas Emhoff. Dana Carvey appeared further into the open as President Biden.
The sketch cut to a rally held by former president Donald Trump, played by James Austin Johnson behind a panel of bulletproof glass, in reference to the assassination attempt made on Trump in July. Johnson’s Trump also referenced the false claim about Haitian immigrants eating pets.
Trump’s running mate JD Vance was played by Bowen Yang who chimed in on the controversial “Project 2025” before getting abruptly cut off. There were no mentions of the false online rumors that Vance had intercourse with a couch.
Hacks star Jean Smart hosted the milestone premiere for the long-running NBC sketch comedy show with country star Jelly Roll on musical guest duties.
The show will return next Saturday with comedian Nate Bargatze to host and Coldplay as the musical guest.
