SNL’s cold open reminds us what a real scandal looks like
By Matt Moore
Saturday Night Live returned with a new episode hosted by Daniel Kaluuya. It was a strong episode that got off to a fast start thanks to the cold open. SNL’s Chloe Fineman revived her Britney Spears impression for another episode of the “Britney Spears Talk Show.”
Fineman first showed off her Spears impression last season, her first on Saturday Night Live. It was one of several celebrities Fineman was able to show off while demonstrating her talents during the “Saturday Night Live at Home” run to close out the year.
Fans got their first look at Fineman as Spears this season back on Feb. 20. The “Britney Spears Talk Show” featured guests like Ted Cruz (Aidy Bryant), Governor Andrew Cuomo (Pete Davidson), and Gina Carano (Cecily Strong).
Last night on SNL, it was another trio of public figures wrapped up in a scandal that joined the “Britney Spears Talk Show.” Lil Nas X, Pepé Le Pew, and Representative Matt Gaetz all took their turn talking with Britney Spears about why they’re in the news. Check out the sketch below:
SNL cast members show off their celebrity impressions in the cold open
Chloe Fineman as Britney Spears is one of the best impressions Saturday Night Live has at its disposal right now. It’s up there with Cecily Strong as Judge Jeanine Pirro in terms of just how accurate both performers are when it comes to the voice and mannerism of their respective subjects. It’s also worth noting that with everything going on with the real Britney Spears, Fineman portrays the pop star in a positive light and that should be applauded.
Chris Redd continues to be an important part of what SNL does week in and week out. He didn’t need to do much other than let the wardrobe and wig department do its thing to play Lil Nas X. But credit goes to SNL for leaning into the rapper’s controversy and defending him. Still, expect some folks to be upset with the “God” cameo the day before Easter.
SNL’s commentary on “cancel culture” and the outrage on both sides continued with Kate McKinnon as Pepé Le Pew. Anytime McKinnon gets to go over the top and play something absurd, it works. Playing a cartoon skunk was no different.
Finally, it was Pete Davidson as Rep. Matt Gaetz that rounded out the “Britney Spears Talk Show.” Clearly, SNL wanted to remind people what a real scandal looked like having “Gaetz” on after Lil Nas X and Pepé Le Pew. Again, Davidson didn’t have to do much as Gaetz other than to sit there and be a punching bag for the other characters. Safe to say SNL got its message across.
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What did you think of the cold open? Share your thoughts in the comment section below and check back with Last Night On for more Saturday Night Live coverage.