In a recent episode of Saturday Night Live, actor and songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda took the stage for the show’s opening sketch, showcasing his much-celebrated work in ‘Hamilton’. Miranda, who played Alexander Hamilton in the hit Broadway musical, was brought into the comedic fold to rap about his iconic role. However, the fun took an unexpected turn when former President Donald Trump, portrayed by SNL cast member James Austin Johnson, interrupted Miranda’s rap to make some outrageous assertions about his own presidency. Johnson’s Trump claimed, ‘I am the first president to be elected king,’ playing off the constitutional debate surrounding his administration’s actions.
Fans were delighted to hear Miranda unleash a rapid-fire rap, filled with lyrical nods to both his Hamilton fame and current political events. The sketch humorously juxtaposed Miranda’s refined artistry with Trump’s bombastic interruptions, making for a compelling comedic moment. The cold open not only entertained live audiences but also resonated with viewers at home, trending on social media shortly after airing.
Additionally, touching upon recent events, the sketch also referenced Trump’s multiple legal entanglements, enhancing the satire around contemporary political discourse. ‘They can’t take away my title,’ Johnson’s Trump argued, referring to his ongoing legal battles and public controversies. This engaging dynamic between the two characters powered the cold open, showcasing SNL’s signature blend of entertainment and political commentary.
Overall, the sketch drew praise for its clever writing and Miranda’s energetic performance, ensuring that this installment of SNL remained memorable amidst a season of political drama and cultural commentary.
