Highlights from Episode 17 of SNL’s 50th Season
On April 12, the 17th episode of the iconic Saturday Night Live (SNL) marked yet another milestone in the show’s Golden Jubilee celebration. Following the unforgettable performance by Lady Gaga in the previous episode, the spotlight shifted to multi-talented artist Lizzo, who dazzled audiences alongside esteemed host Jon Hamm and returning guest Scarlett Johansson.
Spotlight on “The White Potus”Sketch
This episode was particularly noteworthy for its clever parody of HBO’s popular series, The White Lotus, cleverly titled The White Potus. The sketch humorously critiqued recent tariffs introduced by the President, aligning with the current political climate while entertaining audiences. Fans quickly took to social media platform X to share their enthusiastic reactions, showcasing how the sketch resonated with viewers amidst ongoing discussions about new legislation.
“Ok… the @nbcsnl bit titled ‘The White Potus’ killed. Slayed. Annihilated,”a fan said.
“The White Potus is the funniest thing Saturday Night Live has done in years,”said another.
“#SNL give a raise immediately to whoever wrote that White Potus skit,”added a third.
“Holy sh*t! #snl just nailed The White POTUS skit! Funniest thing I’ve seen from them in quite some time!”commented one.
Reacting to the sketch, many fans expressed their delight and admiration for the comedic performance.
“The White Potus was so good. And great to see Alex Moffatt and Beck Beckett cameos!”an X user wrote.
“This White Lotus parody, The White POTUS, on SNL right now. Hilarious. Jon Hamm as RFK Jr. Beck Bennett back as Putin,”another user wrote.
“This Saturday Night Live White Potus take on White Lotus is just as amazing and equally disturbing. Watch until the very end,” commented one.
“Could we just get, like, an ENTIRE season of THIS?! ‘The White Potus’ – 10/10! Hands down, the best sketch of the night, and YEAR,”wrote another.
A Closer Look at the Characters
The sketch featured notable performances with Chloe Fineman portraying Melania Trump, parodying Victoria Ratliff, while James Austin Johnson took on the role of Donald Trump alongside his on-screen counterpart, Timothy Ratliff. The Ratliff children, echoing the Trump family, were embodied by Mikey Day as Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr., while Scarlett Johansson stepped into the shoes (or should we say stilettos) of Ivanka Trump.
The comedic narrative unfolded as Trump indulged in a miniature McDonald’s burger, humorously resembling a lorazepam pill, while his sons busily prepared protein shakes nearby. Meanwhile, Ivanka’s journey to a Buddhist temple led to a poignant moment where she was faced with the question:
“You must ask yourself, ‘Am I willing to give up greed and material possessions in order to lead an honest and ethical life?”
Ultimately, unable to relinquish her attachments, she quickly departed the temple. Lizzo’s impressive portrayal of Belinda provided an unforgettable moment, particularly as she sat in front of a computer to receive a staggering $5 million—an increase from last year’s $20 million.
Jon Hamm’s role as RFK Jr. mirrored Rick from The White Lotus, with Sarah Sherman playing Chloe. Hamm stirred laughs when he presented a syringe of measles, questioning Sherman’s perspective on his proposal to eradicate fluoride from American water. In a bizarre twist of humor, she bluntly responded:
“There’s a monkey; kill it and eat it,”she said.
The sketch also included instances of absurdity, like a shirtless portrayal of Putin, akin to Valentin in the original series, as he interacted with key fictional characters such as U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, U.S. Attorney General Pam Biondi, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
To stay updated on future episodes of Saturday Night Live, fans are encouraged to follow the show’s official Instagram account, @nbcsnl.
For additional insights and reactions, check the full article here.