The Season 52 premiere of “Saturday Night Live” kicked off with its traditional cold open, centering on an unexpected friendship between two political figures. Ramy Youssef portrayed New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who was visited at Gracie Mansion by James Austin Johnson’s depiction of President Donald Trump.
During the sketch, the two discussed current events, including a nor’easter battering the East Coast, the New York Knicks’ recent championship victory, the upcoming U.N. General Assembly meeting in New York, and Trump’s recent meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
The lighthearted exchange was disrupted by the arrival of Natalie Harp, Trump’s appointments secretary. Portrayed by Ashley Padilla, the character channeled the dramatic energy of Nikki from the TV series “Obsession.” Harp entered the scene, remarking that she had run all the way from Washington, D.C., in a reference to the film “Weapons.”
Jalen Brunson hosted the season premiere, with British-Korean girl group Katseye performing as the musical guest. The episode also marked the first appearance of new cast members Saidah Belo-Osagie and Grace Reiter.
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