James Austin Johnson’s Trump Steals SNL Cold Open with Phantom Serenade

Saturday Night Live opened its latest episode with a political parody. The show staged a mock New York City mayoral debate. The sketch was memorably interrupted by a surprise guest.

President Donald Trump, portrayed by James Austin Johnson, crashed the fictional forum. His entrance shifted the comedy into high gear. The bit blended current events with classic SNL absurdity.

Debate Features Teller as Cuomo and Gillis as Sliwa

Host Miles Teller played former governor Andrew Cuomo. He introduced himself as a born New Yorker. Teller’s Cuomo delivered awkward, confidence-filled lines.

Shane Gillis appeared as candidate Curtis Sliwa. Ramy Youssef played a socialist candidate named Zohran Mamdani. The candidates fielded questions on serious and silly topics.

They were asked about the city’s biggest problems. They also shared their favorite bagel orders. The debate format set the stage for the larger interruption.

Trump’s Entrance and Theatrical Finale Dominate Sketch

James Austin Johnson’s Trump entered towards the sketch’s end. He declared the election was really about him. The character suggested he might become mayor himself.

Johnson’s Trump answered the bagel question uniquely. He requested a Big Mac with a hole in it. The reply drew laughter from the studio audience.

He then compared himself to the Phantom of the Opera. The bit concluded with Johnson singing a line from the musical. He belted out “Music of the Night” to close the cold open.

This performance continues Johnson’s run as the show’s primary Trump impersonator. His casting followed Alec Baldwin’s tenure in the role. The sketch highlighted SNL’s ongoing political satire.

The latest SNL cold open proved that political satire remains a cornerstone of the long-running show, with James Austin Johnson’s Trump providing the evening’s most memorable moment.

Thought you’d like to know

Who hosted this episode of Saturday Night Live?

Miles Teller hosted the November 1st episode. This was his second time serving as SNL host. Brandi Carlile was the musical guest.

What did Miles Teller discuss in his monologue?

Teller spoke about losing his home in a wildfire. He said the experience made him grateful. He then humorously pointed out the studio’s fire exits.

How long has it been since Teller last hosted SNL?

His previous hosting gig was exactly three years and one month prior. He first hosted on October 1, 2022. This marked his return to the Studio 8H stage.

Who are the next scheduled SNL hosts?

Nikki Glaser and Glen Powell are set to host upcoming episodes. They will be joined by musical guests Sombr and Olivia Dean. The show continues its 49th season.

Why is James Austin Johnson’s Trump impression significant?

Johnson currently portrays Donald Trump on the show. He took over the role from previous cast members. His performance is a key part of the program’s political comedy.