A Hilarious Cameo and A Blast from the Past: Mike Myers as Elon Musk on SNL
Saturday Night Live (SNL) has long been a platform for comedic genius, and its latest episode did not disappoint. In a surprise cameo, Mike Myers, the beloved star of "Austin Powers" and "Shrek," graced the stage once again, this time as none other than Elon Musk. The skit revolved around a fictional meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former US President Donald Trump, portrayed by Mikey Day and James Austin Johnson, respectively. The scene quickly turned amusing when Myers, dressed in a "Tech Support" t-shirt, jeans, and a long black coat, resembling Musk’s recent White House attire, unexpectedly barged into the Oval Office set.
Myers, armed with a chainsaw and his signature wit, interrupted the conversation with a cheerful "Hi guys," immediately capturing the attention of both Trump and Zelensky’s characters. Johnson, as Trump, complimented Musk’s outfit, to which Myers humorously replied, "Thanks, Donald," adding with a smirk, "What are you doing in my office? You know I’m the president now, right? I’m kidding, I’m kidding. Maybe not." The exchange was laced with the kind of humor that only Myers can deliver, blending absurdity with charm. He even took a moment to jump in the air and shout, "Legalize comedy!" a playful nod to his character’s irreverent style.
The skit then delved into current events, poking fun at Musk’s recent appointment as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and the wave of mass government layoffs. Myers, in character, defended the firings with a tongue-in-cheek remark, "They’re saying I’m firing people with no cause. But I do have cause — it’s ‘cause I feel like it." This line, delivered with his signature deadpan, highlighted the absurdity of the situation, drawing laughs from the audience. Johnson, as Trump, interjected, "We love mass firings," to which Myers retorted, "Firing the non-essential employees, like air traffic controllers." The humor was sharp, yet light-hearted, capturing the satirical tone SNL is known for.
Reflecting on his time at SNL, Myers, a regular from 1989 to 1995, shared his initial anxieties during an appearance at the Vulture Festival. He admitted to having an anxiety attack and being "scared shitless" when he first started, but ultimately found acceptance and belonging with the audience. This recent cameo served as a nostalgic reminder of his impactful tenure, showcasing that his comedic prowess remains undiminished. His ability to embody characters with such depth and humor is a testament to his enduring talent.
Myers’ performance not only entertained but also highlighted the ongoing relevance of SNL in addressing current events through satire. The skit, with its blend of political humor and pop culture references, resonated with viewers, reminding them of the power of comedy to critique and connect. It was a moment that brought together the past and present, celebrating both the legacy of Myers and the evolving landscape of comedy.
In conclusion, Mike Myers’ surprise cameo as Elon Musk on SNL was a masterclass in comedy, blending timely humor with nostalgic charm. The skit, with its clever writing and stellar performances, underscored the enduring appeal of SNL and Myers’ timeless talent. It served as a delightful reminder of the magic that happens when comedy meets current events, leaving audiences in stitches and eagerly anticipating what’s next.
