In the vast landscape of modern entertainment, few shows can match the cultural impact and enduring popularity of Saturday Night Live, affectionately known as SNL. The program's cold open segments, which kick off each episode, are renowned for their incisive satire and timely humor. Last night, December 20, 2025, viewers were treated to yet another memorable skit featuring the return of a beloved character.
Last night, the SNL cold open featured the always-hilarious and ever-incisive James Austin Johnson reprising his role as President Donald Trump. Johnson, known for his impeccable impressions, brought his unique brand of humor to the cold open, skewering both the President and other prominent figures in a single, masterful skit. Johnson's portrayal of Trump has become a fan favorite, and his performances have consistently caused the cast to break character during filming, highlighting the comedic gold he mines from the role.
The skit also featured a variety of other notable cast members, including Ashley Padilla, who portrayed White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. The dynamic between Padilla and Johnson added layers of complexity and humor, making the skit a standout moment in SNL's recent history. The cold open showcased the show's ability to blend political commentary with slapstick humor, making it accessible and entertaining to a wide audience.
One of the most engaging elements of last night's SNL cold open was the inclusion of a familiar game show format, "Family Feud." In this skit, Kamala Harris, played by Maya Rudolph, and Donald Trump, portrayed by James Austin Johnson, competed in a humorous and lighthearted "Family Feud" segment, which brought the presidential election to a new and unexpected level. The skit cleverly incorporated real-world issues, including the ongoing presidential election, and the contentious politics of the day, making it a relevant and timely piece of satire.
The skit also featured an unexpected twist, as Trump, portrayed by James Austin Johnson, compared his "plight" to that of Jesus, which added a deeper layer of humor. This comparison was a sharp and poignant commentary on the political climate, highlighting the show's ability to tackle complex issues with wit and intelligence.
The SNL cold open from last night is a testament to the show's enduring relevance and its ability to stay current with the times. By blending political satire and humor, SNL continues to be a cultural touchstone, providing viewers with a unique and entertaining perspective on the world. As the show continues to evolve, fans can look forward to more insightful and hilarious performances from James Austin Johnson and the talented cast of Saturday Night Live.
