“SNL” Unites Democrats and Republicans in a Hilarious “Family Feud” Sketch

As the presidential election approaches, “Saturday Night Live” brought some political humor to the forefront with a sketch pitting Democrats against Republicans in a playful game of “Family Feud.” This light-hearted format provided a fresh approach to political satire, showcasing the show’s ensemble cast in a way that was both entertaining and relevant.

In this episode, Maya Rudolph reprised her role as Vice President Kamala Harris, while Andy Samberg portrayed her husband, Doug Emhoff. Other notable cast members included Jim Gaffigan as Harris’ running mate, Governor Tim Walz, Dana Carvey as President Joe Biden, James Austin Johnson as former President Donald Trump, Bowen Yang as Senator JD Vance, and Mikey Day as Donald Trump Jr.

Kenan Thompson took on the role of Steve Harvey, the charismatic host of the game show. The setup allowed for some clever and humorous exchanges as contestants were asked to name items typically found in a glove compartment. The answers provided a mix of genuine insight and absurdity, which is a hallmark of the show’s comedic style.

Rudolph’s Harris and Samberg’s Emhoff quickly got the top answers on the board with “gun” and “second gun,” reflecting the heightened political climate. However, it was Gaffigan’s response as Walz that stole the show: “Hot Hands, napkins from Runza, and gotta have Tums in case I eat something spicy like tomato.” His down-to-earth answer contrasted amusingly with the more conventional responses, drawing laughter from the audience.

Johnson’s portrayal of Trump also elicited chuckles, particularly when he quipped, “I say lots of different things, but it all comes together so beautifully, like an episode of ‘Seinfeld.’” This self-referential humor added a layer of absurdity that resonated with viewers, encapsulating the often chaotic nature of political discourse.

The sketch marked the third consecutive cold open focused on political themes, reflecting “SNL’s” commitment to addressing current events. However, some critics noted that the humor had been waning in recent weeks. Lorne Michaels, the show’s executive producer, acknowledged this shift, explaining that while the political landscape offers ample material, the priority remains on comedy. “You can’t lecture the audience, which most of politics is now—people lecturing the audience,” he stated. “Ours is like, ‘Yeah, there are kind of idiots on both sides.’ It has to be comedy. We’re first and foremost a comedy show.”

Michaels emphasized that the show’s goal is to entertain rather than to preach, and this approach was evident in the “Family Feud” sketch. By placing both parties in a humorous light, “SNL” sought to highlight the absurdities of political life while fostering a sense of unity, if only for a moment.

Ariana Grande returned as the episode’s host, bringing her star power and charm to the stage. Alongside her was musical guest Stevie Nicks, adding a musical flair to the evening’s entertainment. The combination of Grande’s hosting skills and Nicks’ iconic performances contributed to a well-rounded show that appealed to a broad audience.

As the nation braces for the upcoming election, “SNL” continues to provide a platform for political commentary, albeit with a comedic twist. The “Family Feud” sketch serves as a reminder that humor can be a bridge across party lines, allowing for a shared laugh amid the serious undertones of political rivalry.

In summary, this latest episode of “Saturday Night Live” effectively blended comedy with current events, allowing viewers to enjoy a light-hearted take on the political landscape. With its unique format and talented cast, the show succeeded in delivering humor while navigating the complexities of American politics. As the election date looms closer, audiences can expect more sketches that capture the spirit of the times, reminding us all that laughter can be found even in the most divided of circumstances.