SNL’s Hilarious Roast of Trump Amid Epstein Controversy

A Night of Humor at SNL

On the night of November 16, 2025, Saturday Night Live kicked off with an edgy cold open that took direct aim at the White House’s ongoing discomfort surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. The familiar comedic format, set in the White House press briefing room, cleverly reflected the tension within the administration. With the nation still buzzing over Epstein’s connections to high-profile figures, SNL’s writers unearthed a goldmine of comedic potential.

Expecting the Question

The sketch began with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, portrayed by Ashley Padilla, trying to sidestep press inquiries regarding Epstein and Trump. As the questions grew bolder and more pointed, the tension among the press corps made clear that this subject was one the White House desperately wanted to avoid. Enter James Austin Johnson as Donald Trump, who abruptly shifted the tone.

Trump’s Comedic Defense

In typical Trump fashion, he quipped, “I am hiding almost nothing, just enough to make it extremely suspicious.” This self-aware mockery perfectly captured the absurdity surrounding the president’s defense in the ongoing saga. Johnson’s portrayal was spot on, channeling the former president’s signature bravado, while dazzling the audience with a deliciously ridiculous proposal: offering to sell the Epstein files as an $800 “stocking stuffer.” The absurdity was palpable, and the laughter that ensued evidenced the brilliance of the sketch.

Dismissing Epstein Connections

As the sketch unfolded, Trump’s repeated claims that he barely knew Epstein were laid bare before audiences. “Jeffrey Epstein? I barely knew the guy,” he proclaimed, while the audience was shown a series of images depicting the two “partying” together — a comical twist that highlighted the sheer contrast between Trump’s claims and the reality of their connections.

His line about the photos—”always leering and pointing at something just off camera, probably a book we’re excited to read”—worked to inject humor into an otherwise serious topic, showcasing the comedic genius that SNL often brings to political satire.

The Turkey Pardoning

The closing of the sketch took another hilarious turn as Trump pardoned a turkey, stating that, “by complete coincidence,” it was a sex offender. This twist was a nod to his controversial pardoning decisions during his time in office, brilliantly wrapped in satire that resonated both in wit and relevance. The comedic timing of the cast, underscored by relevant political commentary, showcased SNL’s enduring legacy as a platform for political humor.

Sunday Morning Show Roundup

As political shadows loom large following the SNL episode, major Sunday morning shows lined up a slew of guests to discuss pressing issues.

• ABC’s “This Week” featured White House National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett alongside Senator Chris Murphy and Representative Thomas Massie. Expect an in-depth exploration of economic challenges and policy discussions.

• NBC’s “Meet The Press” will host Senator Tim Kaine, Representative Ro Khanna, and Senator John Barrasso, covering a spectrum of viewpoints on current events.

• CBS’s “Face the Nation” promises a robust lineup with Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll, Senators Bill Cassidy and Jeanne Shaheen, plus Representatives Don Bacon and Tom Suozzi, tackling national security and legislative agendas.

• Fox News Sunday invited Speaker Mike Johnson, Senator Rick Scott, Representative Ami Bera, and Representative Riley Moore to discuss the conservative agenda and response to recent political developments.

• CNN’s “State of the Union” showcased an eclectic mix with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, CMS Administrator Dr. Oz, Japanese Ambassador Rahm Emanuel and various political commentators, aiming to dissect government policy and public sentiment.

The Dynamics of Trump and Marjorie Taylor Greene

Throughout their political journeys, former President Donald Trump has often faced challenges in maintaining alliances, and the saga with Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene serves as a compelling case study.

Despite an initially strong camaraderie, recent tensions have surfaced, raising the question: What went wrong? With Greene’s outspoken personality often aligning with Trump’s populist base, it appeared she would remain a steadfast ally. However, the intricacies of their relationship are now under scrutiny, suggesting that even the tight-knit circle surrounding Trump is subject to the ephemeral nature of political alliances.

John Fetterman’s Health Update

In other significant news, Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman recently shared a photo of himself showcasing the 20 stitches he received after a fall near his home. This health update draws attention not only to Fetterman’s resilience but also sheds light on the importance of mental health and well-being among public figures, especially as they navigate the demanding nature of political roles.

Support Amidst Turmoil for Greene

As Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene faces backlash amid her feud with Trump, support comes from an unexpected source: her boyfriend, a MAGA reporter. In a public display of affection and loyalty, he expressed his love for Greene through social media, amidst the swirling controversies. His comments reflect a personal layer to the political scene, highlighting the emotional dynamics that often accompany political strife.

Trump’s Threats to Sue the BBC

Adding fuel to the fire, Trump has claimed he will sue the BBC for up to $5 billion over allegations of editing his remarks during a Panorama segment. This latest legal wrinkle once again underlines Trump’s confrontational approach towards media narratives that he perceives as misrepresentative. Such claims provoke discussions about press freedom, media integrity, and the delicate relationship between public figures and the media landscape.

Tariff Defenses Amid Economic Adjustments

In a recent defense of his administration’s tariffs amidst ongoing negotiations, Trump has publicly stated his commitment to reducing food prices—despite the White House rolling back tariffs on various food items due to improving domestic capacity. Trump’s insistence that “we have virtually no inflation” raises eyebrows and could lead to debates over economic accuracy and public perception.

Each of these stories reveals the intricate tapestry that is American political life, showcasing humor, conflict, and the continuous interplay between public perception and governmental actions. Through satire, press dialogues, and raw political maneuvers, we gain insights into the current landscape shaping the nation.