Sarah Sherman is a comedian and actress gaining more prominence on Saturday Night Live. She has had very unique roles showcasing her talent. She recently took on the persona of political commentator Rachel Maddow during a sketch on SNL .
Sarah Sherman as Rachel Maddow
Sarah Sherman's impression of Rachel Maddow a popular political commentator made its debut in a SNL opening skit. Sherman captured the specific look with Maddow's signature short hair and glasses which brought a great visual perspective to a well known personality. The sketch made light of several issues along with taking direct moments of humor from real life instances.
Lampooning Left-Wing Cable News
The sketch made fun of MSNBC and the way they cover certain new worthy topics. This included how often they can focus on specific issues with their commentators. In this parody the pace was fast and they interrupted any topics with various made up breaking news topics.
The MSNBC Parody
Other actors appeared along with Sarah Sherman in this sketch showcasing notable media members. The supporting cast played members including Joy Reid and Ari Melber. Each character highlighted particular parts of what viewers have come to expect from each of their respective personas.
Character Parodies and Humor
Several members were portrayed to be a bit awkward. Such as Joy Reid portrayed as one that would always interrupt a statement to address a different topic, another showing Ari Melber with a passion for hip hop along with Stephan Ruhle having a light and fun manner. The character Chris Hayes had another actor with similar looks showcasing the ongoing joke on the internet and how much they seem to resemble one another.
Fake Breaking News and Exaggerated Scenarios
One highlight from the sketch was that they portrayed mock “breaking news” segments of outlandish ideas from the President such as trading Connecticut for Italy and another claim that the president was speaking to wildfire victims about the golf swings of Arnold Palmer. This was used to show the speed at which current media tries to stay up to date with trending or new information.
James Austin Johnson as Trump
The sketch included an additional appearance of James Austin Johnson as President Trump, offering commentary on a tik-tok ban and adding comments about Mark Zuckerberg with all the absurdities and the unique way in which those scenarios play out for news segments. It was a nod at what often plays out when news agencies take hold of an unusual story.
Reactions to the SNL Skit
The show did what it does best which was providing social commentary using comedy to showcase the times and current opinions while being as humorous and outlandish as possible. The parody drew feedback from both supporters and detractors because some viewed it as having a heavy focus on one specific viewpoint and style of reporting while others saw the humor as important and necessary. The views did vary and provide differing aspects from each viewer and what they did or did not connect to.
Audience Reactions and Online Discussions
The fast pace, over the top character traits made this sketch to become one which made people want to continue discussing the context within various online platforms. Many were happy that SNL was continuing to deliver content which provokes thought as well as delivers needed comedic takes on different aspects of life and current trends in communication and journalism.
The Larger Context
The "Saturday Night Live" episodes have made a pattern out of featuring current political climates and using political figures. Many public figures in different parts of political and world views have been noted on this long running show.
Past Political Parodies
Vice President Kamala Harris was also on the show previously and the sketch promoted discussions and varied political opinions. A notable event caused them to submit the need for an equal time notice showing how the program always has the opportunity for both positive and negative reactions based on their delivery.
Other elements to take from the episode
Along with the comedy and characters that was provided to viewers. Dave Chappelle as a host showed to bring more spotlight with different musical guests which highlighted the various backgrounds SNL usually taps into for each specific production.
Key Takeaways
- Sarah Sherman portrayed Rachel Maddow in a parody on SNL which had made an impact with viewers and a variety of public figures.
- The skit used humor by making light of different political commentators.
- "SNL" takes elements of political satire in many skits which makes it relatable while also being over the top with humor.
- Sarah's performance is evidence that she continues to gain a solid position among the Saturday Night Live crew of actors and actresses.
- "Saturday Night Live" shows a continued interest and focus on political dynamics in a manner which brings a wide perspective from different backgrounds.