James Talarico appears in SNL cold open as Democrats celebrate midterm wins, Druski hosts first internet creator episode
Texas senator-elect James Talarico interrupted the cold open of Saturday Night Live, while comedian Druski became the show's first internet content creator host, featuring a white-face sketch of Elizabeth Holmes.
Saturday Night Live aired a cold open that highlighted the Democratic victories in the recent midterm elections. Texas senator-elect James Talarico entered the sketch near its end, interrupting James Austin Johnson’s portrayal of Donald Trump. Talarico introduced himself, saying, "I’m James Talarico, the guy who’s been texting you every day asking for five dollars," and added that cooperation could improve everyday Americans' lives. The cameo followed Talarico’s win in the Texas Senate race, where he defeated Ken Paxton and flipped the seat for Democrats for the first time since 1988, part of a broader Democratic sweep of the House and Senate.
The episode was hosted by comedian Druski, marking the first time an internet content creator has hosted SNL. During his monologue, Druski warned that a white-face sketch was possible, and later performed a parody of the Nathan Fielder-Elizabeth Holmes documentary, appearing as Holmes in whiteface with blue contacts. The show also featured surprise appearances by Oscar-winning actress Emma Stone, actor Walton Goggins, and musical guest The Strokes. In the closing segment, comedians Dave Chappelle and Chris Rock, along with actor Michael B. Jordan, were seen on stage.
Johnson’s Trump character delivered a post-election commentary, stating he had accepted the results and joking about renovations to the White House ballroom. The sketch also included a brief exchange with Colin Jost playing Pete Hegseth, who delivered a satirical line about losing elections.