‘SNL’ kicked off Season 50 with star-studded cold open about politics, of course

“Saturday Night Live” returned for its 50th season with a star-studded cold open that took aim at the upcoming presidential election, featuring humorous takes on the campaigns of Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. As expected, the sketch blended political satire with the show’s signature comedic flair.

Maya Rudolph made a triumphant return, reprising her role as Kamala Harris. In her opening lines, she compared her campaign to Sabrina Carpenter’s hit song “Espresso,” quipping, “The lyrics are vague but the vibes slap.” This playful jab set the tone for the segment, highlighting the often ambiguous nature of political messaging.

Rudolph was joined by several notable guest stars, including Jim Gaffigan as Harris’ running mate, Tim Walz. Gaffigan embraced Walz’s well-known Minnesota-nice persona, humorously declaring in an enthusiastic Midwestern accent, “This suit is from Costco. It’s a Kirkland brand. They make great dog food.” His lighthearted take on Midwestern friendliness added a layer of charm to the sketch.

Andy Samberg also made a memorable appearance as Harris’ husband, Doug Emhoff. Samberg’s lines drew laughter from the audience as he declared, “I am proud to join the esteemed list of presidential spouses throughout history, women and men—but it’s all women.” His playful acknowledgment of the unique dynamics of political partnerships was a highlight.

In a clever transition, the sketch shifted to James Austin Johnson, who reprised his role as Donald Trump. Portraying the former president at a rally, Johnson humorously depicted a dwindling crowd as Trump launched into his third hour of speaking. “People are saying he’s a bad pick, and in many ways, he was,” Johnson quipped before introducing his running mate.

Bowen Yang made a lively appearance as Senator JD Vance, bringing his own brand of humor to the mix. Yang, as Vance, delivered a memorable line: “How much do we love Donald Trump? Just this afternoon he told me, ‘JD, you’re like a son to me ‘cause I don’t like you and I’m stuck with you.’” This humorous take on their complicated relationship resonated with the audience, encapsulating the absurdity of modern political alliances.

The season premiere was hosted by Jean Smart, a celebrated actress known for her comedic timing and dramatic prowess. Smart’s presence brought an added layer of excitement to the evening. She was joined by musical guest Jelly Roll, who provided an energetic performance, rounding out a night filled with laughs and memorable moments.

The cold open effectively set the stage for what fans can expect from this milestone season of “SNL.” The blend of political commentary and humor is a hallmark of the show, and the cast’s chemistry, alongside guest stars, ensures that the comedic legacy will continue to thrive.

As “SNL” embarks on its 50th season, it promises to deliver sharp satire on contemporary issues while celebrating its rich history. With the presidential election heating up, viewers can look forward to more sketches that explore the absurdities of the political landscape, all while remaining entertaining and engaging.

The iconic late-night show has consistently been a platform for both comedy and commentary, and this season’s opening clearly illustrates that commitment. As the cast dives into the ever-changing world of politics, fans are eager to see how they will navigate the headlines and trends shaping the nation.

With such a strong start, “SNL” fans have much to anticipate in the weeks to come. The combination of star power, witty writing, and political humor is sure to keep audiences laughing and engaged as the season unfolds. As always, the show remains a cultural touchstone, reflecting the times while delivering much-needed levity in a complex world.