The latest episode of Saturday Night Live has generated significant buzz by directly addressing the ongoing controversy surrounding the recently released Jeffrey Epstein emails. The popular comedy show didn't hold back in its satirical take on former President Donald Trump's alleged connections to the convicted sex offender.
SNL's Trump Takes Center Stage in Epstein Sketch
In the November 15 episode, the cold open featured James Austin Johnson reprising his role as Donald Trump during a mock White House press briefing. The sketch began with Ashley Padilla playing press secretary Karoline Leavitt, who attempted to dismiss the week's developments by insisting "there was no news this week, nothing happening with the president."
When reporters pressed about Trump's name appearing in the Epstein correspondence, Johnson's Trump character eventually took the podium with a surprising admission. "I'm hiding almost nothing about Epstein," he declared, adding "just enough to make it extremely suspicious."
Trump's Bizarre Defense and Merchandising Ploy
The sketch took several bold comedic swings, including Trump's attempt to explain his relationship with Epstein. "Jeffrey Epstein, I barely knew the guy, OK? As evidenced by the thousands of pictures of us together, dancing and grinding our teeth at various parties," Johnson's Trump sarcastically remarked.
In perhaps the most controversial moment, the show referenced a specific email where Epstein's brother asked about Russian President Vladimir Putin possessing a compromising photo of Trump. Not stopping there, the sketch featured Trump character announcing he was selling framed printouts of the Epstein emails for $800 each, calling them "great stocking stuffers."
Continuing Pattern of Trump Satire
This marks the second consecutive week that SNL has opened with a Trump-focused sketch, demonstrating the show's continued interest in satirizing the former president. The previous episode had mocked Trump's reaction when a drug company representative fainted behind him during a White House event.
The November 15 episode was hosted by Glen Powell, marking his first time as SNL host following a cameo appearance earlier in 2024. British singer Olivia Dean served as the musical guest for the evening.
The sketch concluded with Trump pardoning a Thanksgiving turkey that he noted was, "by complete coincidence, a convicted sex criminal," providing one final jab at the ongoing Epstein controversy that continues to make headlines across American media.
