In a recent episode of “Saturday Night Live,” the show delved into the politics of 2024, presenting a satirical television special called “The Resurrection” that recounts the story of three women who witnessed the return of Jesus. The special was interrupted by the emergence of former President Donald Trump, portrayed by James Austin Johnson. Trump proceeds to peddle $60 Trump-branded bibles, which include copies of the nation’s founding documents and lyrics from the song “God Bless the U.S.A.” He presents an eccentric image of himself as the Beyoncé of the Trinity and offers a special Trump toaster to purchasers. In a humorous twist, he recites the “Lord’s Prayer” with nonsensical sounds before concluding with “In the name of the father, the son, and the Easter Bunny, amen.”
Comedian and actor Ramy Youssef hosted the episode of “Saturday Night Live” and discussed his observations of politics, including the Israel-Hamas conflict. He recounted seeing Trump campaign paraphernalia in Upstate New York, causing him to feel hesitant about speaking Arabic in public. Youssef joked about turning down a request from President Joe Biden’s campaign to campaign for him among Arab Americans in Michigan, reflecting on his fantasy of making a difference in the election. He concluded that he is unable to make a significant impact and expressed a desire to see a trans woman take on the role of campaigning for the presidency. Youssef also humorously shared his experiences of praying for his friends, mixing serious requests with more lighthearted appeals, such as asking for freedom for Palestinians and hostages while also praying for his friend’s dog caught in a custody battle.
The episode highlighted the current political climate in the United States by satirizing various aspects of society. Through the lens of comedy, “Saturday Night Live” provided commentary on the involvement of controversial figures like Donald Trump in religion and politics. The show also touched on the Arab American community’s role in elections and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Youssef’s monologue offered a blend of humor and introspection as he navigated his thoughts on political engagement and personal responsibilities. Importantly, the episode showcased the ability of comedy to address serious topics and spark conversations about current events in an engaging and entertaining manner.
As a popular late-night comedy show, “Saturday Night Live” has a history of addressing political issues and societal trends through its sketches and monologues. By incorporating current events into its content, the show remains relevant and resonant with viewers who seek comedic takes on contemporary issues. The episode featuring Ramy Youssef as host demonstrated the show’s commitment to exploring diverse perspectives and engaging with complex topics in a light-hearted and accessible way. Through humor and satire, “Saturday Night Live” offers a unique platform for discussing political issues and societal challenges, encouraging audiences to reflect on the world around them while providing moments of laughter and entertainment.
In a year marked by political divisions and high stakes, “Saturday Night Live” provided a comedic escape for viewers while also delivering insightful commentary on the state of American politics. The portrayal of figures like Donald Trump and the discussions around the election process and international conflicts added layers of humor and satire to the show’s content. By engaging with these topics in a humorous manner, “Saturday Night Live” offers a fresh perspective on current events and invites viewers to consider complex issues through the lens of comedy. The episode featuring Ramy Youssef as host showcased the show’s ability to tackle serious subjects with wit and humor, highlighting the power of laughter in addressing societal challenges and political dynamics. Through its unique blend of satire and comedy, “Saturday Night Live” continues to be a relevant and influential cultural touchstone in navigating the complexities of the modern world.
