Kamala Harris made an unexpected appearance on Saturday Night Live just days before the US presidential election. The Democratic presidential nominee joined Maya Rudolph, who often impersonates her, in a sketch on the popular show. Originally scheduled to travel to Detroit, Harris made a spur-of-the-moment decision to visit New York City instead.
The SNL episode started with a parody of CNN, then transitioned to a Trump rally with Austin Johnson playing the former president. The sketch also featured Dana Carvey as President Joe Biden, Jim Gaffigan as Tim Walz, and Andy Samberg as Doug Emhoff. Rudolph’s character, portraying Harris, expressed a desire to speak with someone who understood the unique challenges she faced as a black South Asian woman running for president. The real Harris then made her appearance, and the two exchanged words of encouragement, promising to “end the dram-ala” and “keep Kamala and carry on-a-la”.
The show was hosted by John Mulaney and featured a surprise appearance by Tim Kaine, Virginia Senator and Hillary Clinton’s former running mate. Notable politicians, including Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton, have been guests on SNL in the past. Gerald Ford was the first sitting president to appear on the show back in 1976.
It’s not uncommon for political figures to join the cast of Saturday Night Live, adding a touch of humour to the intense world of politics.
In summary, Kamala Harris made a memorable and light-hearted cameo on Saturday Night Live, showcasing her sense of humour and willingness to engage with popular culture amidst the intensity of the US presidential election campaign. The appearance allowed Harris to connect with audiences in a more relaxed setting and humanised her in the eyes of the public. SNL has a history of hosting political figures, providing a platform for them to show a different side of themselves and connect with a wider audience.