Shane Gillis Declines SNL's Offer to Play Donald Trump in Season 50

The comedian turned down the role to attend a comedy festival, leaving James Austin Johnson to continue as Trump impersonator.

Lorne Michaels sought to reinvent SNL's Donald Trump portrayal ahead of the 2024 presidential election.
Shane Gillis, previously fired from SNL, confirmed he was offered the Trump role for the entire season.
Instead of joining SNL, Gillis chose to appear at the Skankfest comedy festival in Las Vegas.
James Austin Johnson reprised his role as Trump in the season opener, alongside Maya Rudolph as Kamala Harris.
Gillis had hosted SNL in Season 49, where he showcased his Trump impersonation in a sketch.