SNL Parodies Katie Britt’s Cringey Rebuttal to Joe Biden’s State of the Union Address
In a biting parody of Alabama Senator Katie Britt’s cringey rebuttal to President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address, Saturday Night Live (SNL) delivered a hilarious cold open that left viewers in stitches. Scarlett Johansson flawlessly portrayed Britt, capturing the essence of her awkward and melodramatic performance.
From the start, SNL’s Britt made it clear that she would be “auditioning for the part of scary mom” and performing an original monologue titled “This Country Is Hell.” With exaggerated theatrics, she exclaimed, “I’m not performing! I’m not! I’m not!!” while dramatically throwing her hand up to her forehead.
In an attempt to criticize Biden’s immigration policies, Johansson’s character referenced events that took place in Mexico in the mid-2000s. She humorously pointed out that every detail about her shockingly violent story about sex trafficking was real, except for the year, location, and the president at the time.
Adding to the absurdity, SNL’s Britt transformed into a host on the shopping network channel QVC, promoting bejeweled cross necklaces. The abrupt tone changes continued as she got “weirdly seductive for no apparent reason” and alluded to the acclaimed horror film Get Out.
The parody took an even more comical turn as Johansson clanked her spoon around in a teacup, ominously declaring, “My tea is ready.” The camera then cut to Kenan Thompson with tears streaming down his face, further emphasizing the hilarity of the moment.
Despite the comedic nature of the sketch, SNL’s Britt managed to touch on the struggles faced by the American people. She stated, “We hear you. We see you. We smell you,” before humorously adding, “We’re inside your kitchen right now looking through your fridge. And what’s that on the top shelf? Migrants!”
The parody concluded with Johansson’s character hinting at the lack of future political success that often befalls those who deliver State of the Union rebuttals. She addressed President Biden, saying, “Mr. Biden, this isn’t the last you’ll see of Katie Britt. Maybe not in politics. But when you close your eyes, I’ll be right there.”
Britt’s cringey response not only received mockery online and on television but also drew disappointment from GOP operatives, conservative Capitol Hill staffers and lawyers, and senior members of Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign. Rolling Stone reported that many considered it a letdown compared to Biden’s speech.
“I’ll give Biden this,” one GOP consultant admitted. “He at least gave a better speech than Katie Britt.”
While Britt’s rebuttal may have missed the mark, SNL’s parody provided much-needed comic relief and showcased Scarlett Johansson’s comedic talent. The skit served as a reminder that even in the world of politics, a little humor can go a long way.
