Joe Biden Pulls Off Spooky Surprise with a Hilarious Mike Johnson Jumpscare in 'SNL' Cold Open
Joe Biden embraces the Halloween spirit in a hilarious 'SNL' cold open featuring spooky surprises, the iconic Christopher Walken as Papa Pumpkin, and a frightfully funny portrayal of the new speaker of the house
In the cold open of Saturday Night Live, President Joe Biden, portrayed by Mikey Day, gets into the Halloween spirit by decorating the Oval Office. Day's Biden, joking about his age and severed arms, hangs up decorations while singing "Whatta Man." The sketch takes a spooky turn when the new Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson, played by Michael Longfellow, and his "adult Black son" named Michael, portrayed by Devon Walker, make a surprise appearance. To help Biden understand the true meaning of Halloween, Christopher Walken appears as the Spirit of Halloween, taking him on a spooky journey reminiscent of A Christmas Carol.
Christopher Walken Is Papa Pumpkin
He recites a Halloween-themed poem to Biden, playfully saying "trick or treat, smell my feet, give me something good to eat." In the sketch, he humorously refers to himself as "Papa Pumpkin," while conveying the essence of Halloween to Joe Biden. Overall, this lighthearted Halloween skit aimed to bring a sense of joy to a world overshadowed by darkness. Day's Biden continues to emphasize this as the sketch concludes with Walken's iconic line, "Live from New York, it's Saturday Night."
Image via NBC
Saturday Night Live has recently started featuring more guest appearances in addition to their regular hosts. It's unclear whether this change is due to the SAG-AFTRA strike, with hosts who aren't promoting projects, or simply because actors and creatives are more willing to participate in the show. Regardless, having Christopher Walken in the cold open is a delightful choice. Now, we can continue to enjoy his iconic characters like Papa Pumpkin every Halloween, as well as his memorable Saturday Night Live moments, including the famous "More Cowbell" skit. Be sure to watch this week's cold open!
The full episode of Saturday Night Live is available to stream on Peacock in the U.S.
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SNL
NBC's Emmy Award-winning late-night comedy showcase, Saturday Night Live, is returning for its 48th season. Known for its laughs, surprises, and standout performances, SNL has received the most Emmy nominations in history and has won 93 Emmy Awards, including honors for its specials and short-form series. The show has also been recognized with two George Foster Peabody Awards and has been inducted into the Broadcasting Hall of Fame.
With its consistently high ratings and large audience, SNL remains the most-watched late-night television program across both linear and digital platforms. Since its establishment in 1975, the show has been a launching pad for many talented comedy performers of their generation.
SNL's topical humor, which reflects politics and current events, regularly makes headlines. The show features a diverse range of characters who offer a unique perspective on pop culture, and its signature Weekend Update segment provides sharp political commentary. Additionally, SNL attracts some of the biggest stars in the music industry, who deliver innovative viral performances on its stage.
Broadcasting live from NBC's renowned Studio 8H in New York City's Rockefeller Center, Saturday Night Live first premiered on October 11, 1975. The program is produced by Broadway Video in association with SNL Studios, with Lorne Michaels serving as the executive producer.
Release Date: October 11, 1975
Cast: Kenan Thompson, Darrell Hammond, Seth Meyers, Fred Armisen
Genres: Comedy
Rating: TV-14
Seasons: 48
