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Lin-Manuel Miranda Returns as Alexander Hamilton in SNL Cold Open Satirizing Trump’s Second Term

The sketch featured James Austin Johnson’s Trump interrupting Miranda mid-rap to mock modern politics and cultural issues during a comedic reimagining of the Founding Fathers’ era.

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Lin-Manuel Miranda appears as Alexander Hamilton and James Austin Johnson appears as Donald Trump in the cold open of Saturday Night Live on January 25, 2025.
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Overview

  • Lin-Manuel Miranda reprised his iconic role as Alexander Hamilton in a surprise Saturday Night Live appearance during the show's cold open.
  • The sketch depicted the Founding Fathers’ signing of the Declaration of Independence, interrupted by James Austin Johnson’s portrayal of Donald Trump, who declared himself in his 'king era.'
  • Trump’s character mocked diversity efforts, modern workplace culture, and his own administration’s controversial policies, including references to DEI and Elon Musk’s alleged inauguration gesture.
  • The skit included jabs at Trump’s son Barron, now 18, humorously referencing his height and awkward moments during the inauguration.
  • Miranda struggled to stay in character as Johnson’s Trump humorously taunted him, poking fun at his Broadway success and desire to perform a rap.