As Season 50 began, “Saturday Night Live” quickly jumped into the 2024 presidential election. The series premiere opened with a sketch featuring the triumphant return of Maya Rudolph as Vice President Kamala Harris.
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The skit began with actor Andrew Dismukes, playing ABC News anchor David Muir, reporting on Kamala Harris and Donald Trump’s recent rally. Rudolph served as the perfect vice president, addressing voters in the battleground states of Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and Georgia. She noted the hilarity surrounding Harris’ campaign and added Kamala’s signature laugh. Vice presidential candidate Governor Tim Walz, played by comedian Jim Gaffigan, husband Doug Emhoff, embodied by former cast member Andy Samberg, and President Joe Biden also joined on stage, former cast members playing memorable presidents. announced the return of Dana Carvey. George H.W. Bush, in office.
The action then cut to a sad Trump rally, with cast member James Austin Johnson continuing his portrayal of the former president. As he continues his pointless ramblings, vice presidential candidate J.D. Vance joins in and is surprisingly, but amusingly, skewered by Emmy-nominated cast member Bowen Yang.
Fans have been talking about Rudolph’s return ever since Harris became the Democratic presidential nominee, so excitement for her first appearance this season was high. Maya, a comedy pro, did not disappoint. And social media also took notice.
One viewer pointed out how on-point the Emmy winner’s performance was, telling X: “Maya Rudolph lowered Kamala’s voice. Thank you, she has job security for the next four years.” It should be.โ
Another fan, who applauded all the actors in the sketch, praised the Bridesmaids star, writing, “Harris nailed it for Maya Rudolph.”
The “Booty” star’s perfect Vice President impression was a common sentiment, with one user writing to X, “Maya Rudolph is incredibly funny.” She nailed it in this SNL skit. She sounds and looks exactly like Kamala. โ
One person noted the special vibe she brings to the proceedings, writing to X, “Exciting to see Maya Rudolph return as Kamala Harris in the SNL season 50 premiere!” Her comedic touch to politics always brings great energy to the show. I can’t wait to see what she brings this time! โ
Fans in the comments below the YouTube video of the “Saturday Night Live” sketch were similarly impressed with her performance.
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Another person called out one of the most memorable political impressions from “SNL,” saying, “Maya Rudolph as Kamala looks like Tina Fey as Sarah Palin. Totally creepy.” answered.
Viewers couldn’t seem to get over Rudolph’s pure flawless performance, with one commenting: “Oh my god, that Harris impression is perfect.” The tone and intonation of your voice are perfect! โ
As Season 50 of “SNL” continues, Maya’s recurring appearance will likely be the biggest storyline of the show’s early episodes. The real question is whether the vice president will make a surprise appearance as the election approaches.