Lorne Michaels Weighs In On Who Will Play Donald Trump On ‘SNL’ Season 50

Saturday Night Live is getting ready for Season 50, and is preparing plenty of material related to the presidential election. The question remains, who will take on the role of Donald Trump this season?

Series creator Lorne Michaels and Weekend Update anchors Michael Che and Colin Jost recently spoke with The Hollywood Reporter ahead of the sketch comedy show’s milestone 50th season.

When asked about who will portray the former president and the 2024 Republican presidential candidate, Michaels mentioned current cast member James Austin Johnson and alum Alec Baldwin. Michaels hinted that James will be involved but did not reveal any specifics.

Regarding the portrayal of Trump’s running mate, J.D. Vance, Michaels teased that they have the right people for the job and that it will be an enjoyable process. He also mentioned that Trump’s character has evolved, and they will need to reinvent it again after recent events.

While Maya Rudolph is set to return as vice president and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris, there is no official word on who will play vice-presidential candidate and Minnesota governor Tim Walz. Comedian Steve Martin joked about fans wanting him for the role, but he declined the offer.

On Wednesday (Sept. 18), the show announced the season’s first five pairs of hosts and musical guests, including Jean Smart, Jelly Roll, Nate Bargatze, Coldplay, Ariana Grande, Stevie Nicks, Michael Keaton, Billie Eilish, John Mulaney, and Chappell Roan.

Saturday Night Live Season 50 premieres on Sept. 28 at 11:30 p.m. ET/ 8:30 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock.