James Talarico Appears in SNL Cold Open as Himself

James Talarico Appears in SNL Cold Open as Himself

The Hollywood Reporter • • entertainment

Key Points:

  • James Austin Johnson reprised his popular Donald Trump impersonation in Saturday Night Live's cold open, highlighting Trump's defeat by Democrats in the 2026 midterms.
  • Texas senator-elect James Talarico made a surprise cameo, referencing his grassroots fundraising efforts and celebrating his 12-point victory over Republican Ken Paxton, flipping a Texas Senate seat blue for the first time in over 30 years.
  • The sketch satirized generational divides, with Johnson's Trump criticizing Millennials and lamenting cultural trends, while Talarico questioned the longevity of Trump's recurring SNL portrayal.
  • The appearance marked a notable moment for Congressional Democrats' rising media presence and served as a form of vindication for Talarico after FCC-related restrictions moved a prior TV appearance to YouTube.
  • The cold open also featured political satire on Democratic leadership's response to midterm victories and included a humorous farewell to Colin Jost’s Pete Hegseth impression amid rumored changes in the administration.

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