‘SNL’ Cold Open Sees “Trump” Mock Santa, Slam Warner Bros., and Joke About Epstein Files
“Saturday Night Live” kicked off its latest episode with a wild cold open featuring Donald Trump, played by James Austin Johnson, taking aim at everything from Warner Bros. Discovery to Santa Claus.
The sketch had Trump joking about the ongoing studio buyout, saying, “They’ve got one of the worst studio lot tours in LA. You go on that thing, and it’s just some kid pointing to a tree. ‘Oh, that’s the tree from Pretty Little Liars.’ Who gives a crap.”
The sketch took place on Air Force One, with press secretary Karoline Leavitt, played by Ashley Padilla, looking on. Johnson’s Trump made outrageous remarks, including joking about taking Ambien and Adderall in the same night: “Tonight, I took both an Ambien and an Adderall, so we’re going to see which one wins.” He then turned his attention to Leavitt, adding, “Oh, she’s got a beautiful face and those lips that don’t quit. It’s pretty amazing that I can just openly simp over my young blonde subordinate. Look at those lips. They go like a machine gun. She liked it because I’m very nice to women.”
Trump also mocked CNN’s Kaitlan Collins, calling her a “nasty, horrible witch” after being questioned about White House plans, a nod to the real-life criticism Collins has received from the president. The sketch then turned to more absurd territory when a reporter asked about strikes in Venezuela. Trump showed “declassified footage,” which revealed Santa and his reindeer being bombed. “Is that Santa?” the reporter asked. “Not anymore!” Johnson’s Trump replied.
The sketch didn’t stop there. Trump addressed the release of Jeffrey Epstein-related photos, claiming, “Look, the fact is, these photos are fake news. A Democrat hoax.” When pressed about a particularly absurd image of con***** with his face on them, he said, “They’re 100% legit. I love those files. I’m in the files! I took a lot of great pictures.”
Josh O’Connor hosted the Dec. 13 episode, marking his first time hosting “SNL.” The Emmy-winning actor, known for “The Crown,” was promoting his Netflix film “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery.” Musical guest Lily Allen performed, her first appearance on the show since 2007. This episode was also notable as the first time both the host and musical guest were from the U.K. since 1978.
Trump takes some press questions aboard Air Force One pic.twitter.com/LsCbDqTfD2
— Saturday Night Live – SNL (@nbcsnl) December 14, 2025
This episode is the eighth of the season, which has seen hosts like Bad Bunny, Amy Poehler, Sabrina Carpenter, and Melissa McCarthy. Upcoming episodes will feature Ariana Grande as host and Cher as the musical guest.
Overall, the cold open leaned into absurdity and political satire, blending real-world references with over-the-top humor. It certainly left viewers talking about Trump’s outrageous antics and the show’s bold approach to current events.
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