Introduction

As America gears up for the crucial 2024 presidential election, Saturday Night Live (SNL) returned with a bang this week. John Mulaney, a beloved comedic voice and Five-Timers Club member, took the helm as host, engaging audiences with his signature wit. With musical guest Chappell Roan, Mulaney's return was not just timely but also a brilliant commentary on the political landscape.

In a nod to SNL's rich history, which has shaped and seen firsthand the ebb and flow of American politics since its inception in 1975, this episode was especially poignant. Former cast member Jim Downey, who famously wrote many political sketches over the years, had fondly reminisced earlier this week about the show's influence during election cycles, evoking memories of 1976 when SNL helped sway public opinion against President Gerald Ford.

Cold Open

The night kicked off with a clever cold open featuring Chloe Fineman impersonating CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins. The segment showcased intercut scenes from opposing rallies, allowing for an uproarious take on Donald Trump's latest antics portrayed fabulously by James Austin Johnson. As Trump lamented his surroundings, Maya Rudolph made a surprise appearance as Kamala Harris, humorously claiming to be texting every voter in America. The satire deepened as Dana Carvey appeared, offering a nostalgic homage to his iconic George Bush impression.

Monologue

Mulaney's monologue was heartfelt and relatable, sharing tales of fatherhood with a young daughter and a lively two-year-old. He fondly reminisced about his grandfather’s upbringing on a Wisconsin dairy farm—a stark contrast to today's rapid-paced life. Though not overtly political, the monologue set a playful tone for the evening.

Sketch Highlights

One of the standout sketches was an adaptation of a game show titled "What's That Name: Election Edition," cleverly poking fun at the political elite and their connections. The laughter continued with “Beppo,” where Mulaney’s character delivered bad news to a chimp aboard a space mission—a perfect blend of wit and nostalgia.

Later, the "Port Authority Duane Reade" sketch emerged as a musical highlight, channeling Broadway flair with comedic references to pop culture and playful milk jokes that had the audience in stitches.

Musical Performance

Chappell Roan captivated viewers with her infectious song “Pink Pony Club,” narrating dreams of queer culture from the perspective of a small-town girl. This performance was a vivid celebration of identity and aspiration, echoing Roan’s own journey—she revealed in a recent post just how far she has come since her aspirations of performing on SNL first started.

Weekend Update

SNL's “Weekend Update” segment humorously tackled the latest election developments, including celebrity endorsements and amusing political missteps. Heidi Gardner, channeling Reba McEntire, candidly expressed her indecision about the candidates, while skewering the absurdity that often accompanies election seasons.

In a memorable conclusion, Mulaney portrayed a fictional candidate in a comedic ad segment that cleverly addressed serious topics with a lighthearted twist.

Final Thoughts

This edition of SNL reminded audiences why the show remains a cultural staple: it blends humor with insightful commentary, ensuring that political discourse is not just accessible but also entertaining. If you missed this hilarious yet thought-provoking episode, make sure to catch the highlights—they’re bound to be the talk of the town as we head closer to the election!