SNL Satirizes Pete Hegseth Trump in 51st Season Premiere

Saturday Night Live (SNL) kicked off its 51st season with a politically charged cold open that parodied Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and President Donald Trump. Colin Jost portrayed Hegseth, mocking his recent controversial remarks about the U.S. military being "too liberal" and "too soft," and satirizing the military's alleged adoption of "woke" policies with humor likening it to a college frat party. James Austin Johnson appeared as President Trump, delivering a sharp impersonation that criticized late-night TV hosts and warned SNL to be cautious, referencing ongoing controversies involving shows like Jimmy Kimmel Live! and Stephen Colbert. The sketch also included a cameo by Mikey Day as FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, highlighting the tension between late-night TV and regulatory authorities. The segment was widely praised online for Jost's convincing and range-expanding performance, drawing comparisons to Tina Fey's iconic portrayals. Overall, the episode blended satire of current political figures with commentary on cultural debates around media, military policy, and free speech.