- Jon Hamm hosted ‘Saturday Night Live’ on April 13, 2025.
- Kieran Culkin made a surprise cameo during Hamm’s monologue.
- The two joked about ‘Mad Men’ and ‘Succession,’ sparking a playful rivalry.
- The episode also featured a Trump-themed parody of ‘The White Lotus.’
- Scarlett Johansson surprised audiences with a cameo as Ivanka Trump.
Jon Hamm Hosts SNL with a Surprise from Kieran Culkin
On April 13, 2025, Jon Hamm took the stage as host of NBC’s ‘Saturday Night Live,’ delivering a monologue filled with humor and self-deprecation. However, the highlight of the evening came when Kieran Culkin, star of HBO’s ‘Succession,’ made an unexpected appearance. What started as a lighthearted exchange quickly turned into a playful debate over the merits of ‘Mad Men’ versus ‘Succession,’ two of television’s most critically acclaimed dramas.
The Monologue: A Duel of TV Titans
Hamm began his monologue by reflecting on his career, including his iconic role as Don Draper in ‘Mad Men.’ Midway through, Culkin interrupted, jokingly questioning Hamm’s assertion that ‘Mad Men’ was the “greatest TV show of all time.” Hamm retorted, “Come on, Kieran, ‘Mad Men’ is better than ‘Succession.’” The audience erupted in laughter as the two actors bantered, with Culkin quipping, “At least we didn’t have to sell cigarettes to get viewers.”
The exchange was a nod to the ongoing debate among fans and critics about which show holds the crown for best modern drama. Both series have won numerous awards and boast passionate fanbases, making the moment a delightful treat for viewers familiar with their legacies.
‘The White Potus’: A Trump-Themed Parody
The evening’s sketches didn’t stop at celebrity banter. One of the standout moments was a pre-taped parody titled ‘The White Potus,’ a satirical take on HBO’s hit series ‘The White Lotus.’ The sketch reimagined the dysfunctional Trump family as characters in the luxury resort setting, with Chloe Fineman playing Melania Trump and James Austin Johnson portraying Donald Trump.
Scarlett Johansson made a surprise appearance as Ivanka Trump, delivering a hilariously exaggerated performance. The sketch poked fun at the Trump family’s controversies and financial troubles, mirroring the themes of ‘The White Lotus.’ Lizzo also appeared as a character resembling Belinda, adding a musical twist to the satire.
Audience Reactions and Social Media Buzz
The episode quickly became a trending topic on social media, with fans praising the chemistry between Hamm and Culkin. The ‘Mad Men’ versus ‘Succession’ debate reignited online, with users sharing their favorite moments from both shows. Meanwhile, ‘The White Potus’ sketch drew mixed reactions, with some applauding its bold humor and others criticizing its political undertones.
Scarlett Johansson’s cameo was particularly well-received, with fans calling it one of the night’s highlights. Her portrayal of Ivanka Trump added an unexpected layer of comedy to the sketch, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
The Legacy of ‘Mad Men’ and ‘Succession’
Both ‘Mad Men’ and ‘Succession’ have left indelible marks on television history. ‘Mad Men,’ which aired from 2007 to 2015, is celebrated for its meticulous attention to detail and exploration of 1960s American culture. Hamm’s portrayal of Don Draper earned him widespread acclaim and multiple awards.
‘Succession,’ on the other hand, has captivated audiences with its sharp writing and complex characters. The series, which follows the power struggles within a wealthy media family, has become a cultural phenomenon, earning numerous Emmys and a dedicated fanbase.
The playful rivalry between Hamm and Culkin on SNL highlights the enduring impact of these shows and their ability to spark conversations long after their finales.
What’s Next for SNL?
As SNL continues its 50th season, the show remains a platform for cultural commentary and comedic innovation. Upcoming episodes promise more surprises, with Quinta Brunson set to host on May 3 alongside musical guest Benson Boone.
For now, fans can relish the memorable moments from Hamm’s episode, from the ‘Mad Men’ versus ‘Succession’ debate to the satirical brilliance of ‘The White Potus.’ Whether you’re Team Draper or Team Roy, one thing is certain: SNL knows how to keep audiences talking.