UPDATE: In a gripping episode of “Saturday Night Live” aired on October 14, 2023, Amy Poehler reprised her role as a fierce Pam Bondi, delivering a combative performance in response to the politician’s recent Senate hearing. The episode, marking the 50th anniversary of “SNL,” included surprise guest appearances and sharp political satire that captivated viewers.
Poehler’s portrayal of Bondi was particularly pointed, as she faced questions about President Donald Trump deploying National Guard troops against Americans. With a confrontational edge, Poehler’s Bondi quipped, “Before I don’t answer, I’d like to insult you personally,” reflecting the heightened tensions in current political discourse.
In a stunning twist, former cast member Tina Fey made a surprise appearance as Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, brandishing an assault-style rifle and enticing applicants to join Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) with tongue-in-cheek questions about gas station supplements. Fey’s delivery, “Then buckle up and slap on some Oakleys, big boy: Welcome to ICE,” drew laughter, underscoring the parody’s sharp commentary on immigration policies.
Poehler, returning to host for the third time, expressed her nostalgic connection to the show, stating, “It’s always a dream come true to be here,” in her opening monologue. She humorously addressed the rise of artificial intelligence in entertainment, saying, “To that little AI robot watching TV right now who wants to be on this stage someday, I say to you: Beep, boop, beep, boop beep beep,” emphasizing human creativity over automation.
The episode also featured a cameo by Aubrey Plaza, who played a new character in a parody of Netflix’s “The Hunting Wives,” referred to as “the straight but lesbian horny Republican murder drama.” Her character’s revelation of having a girlfriend led to an absurdly comedic response from the other women, showcasing the show’s signature blend of humor and social commentary.
Adding to the excitement, a “Weekend Update” segment brought together Poehler, Fey, and Seth Meyers—all past anchors—who joined current hosts Colin Jost and Michael Che for a quiz show-style competition, providing a nostalgic nod to longtime fans.
The episode also paid tribute to the late Diane Keaton, who passed away at the age of 79, with a moving portrait displayed at the end. This heartfelt moment resonated with viewers and underscored the show’s ability to blend humor with poignant tributes.
Musical guest Role Model delivered a vibrant performance of “Sally, When The Wine Runs Out,” featuring a special appearance by Charli XCX, further energizing the evening.
Looking ahead, Sabrina Carpenter is set to host next week’s episode, along with another musical performance, continuing the momentum of this iconic series. “SNL” airs on NBC, which is part of NBCUniversal, the parent company of NBC News.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, “SNL” remains a powerful platform for satire and commentary, leaving audiences eager for the next episode and what it will reveal.
