Lorne Michaels Promises 'SNL' Will Reinvent Trump Portrayals in Upcoming Season

Lorne Michaels

Lorne Michaels on Reinventing Trump for 'SNL': A New Approach Ahead

Lorne Michaels, the mastermind behind “Saturday Night Live,” has announced plans to "reinvent" the portrayal of former President Trump on the iconic sketch show. In an interview with the Hollywood Reporter, he expressed excitement about the upcoming season, emphasizing the need to adapt characters to keep the show fresh and engaging.

James Austin Johnson will reprise his role as Trump, but Michaels hinted that new elements will be introduced to resonate with audiences. “One of the great parts of show business is that you can’t come back with the same show,” he stated. “All of these characters have to be reexamined to ensure they feel relevant.”

Maya Rudolph is set to return as Vice President Harris, though details on her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, remain under wraps. Alec Baldwin, who famously portrayed Trump throughout much of his presidency, will not be returning.

Michaels shared insights into the challenges of political satire, noting that Republicans tend to be easier to characterize than Democrats, who sometimes take offense to certain skits. He affirmed his commitment to the writers, stating, “It’s not personal; it’s just commentary on real events.”

Michael Che, a fellow comedian on the show, echoed Michaels’ sentiments, acknowledging that not everyone agrees on political content but emphasizing the necessity of humor. “Funny is funny,” he said, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the team as they navigate the complexities of satire in today’s political climate.