Saturday Night Live’s Weekend Update segment is known for its sharp-witted humor and
fearless approach to current events, and this week’s episode was no exception. The show took direct aim at former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, using biting satire to highlight the sexual harassment allegations that led to his resignation. The segment also tackled other
major headlines, including political tensions involving former President Donald Trump and
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, as well as a humorous jab at billionaire Elon Musk.
Co-anchor Michael Che wasted no time in addressing Cuomo’s recent announcement that he would be running for mayor of New York City. The former governor, who left office in disgrace in 2021 following multiple allegations of sexual misconduct, has once again stepped into the political spotlight, much to the dismay of many New Yorkers. Che delivered a particularly pointed joke about Cuomo’s campaign slogan, alluding to the accusations that forced him to step down.
“Former New York governor Andrew Cuomo has decided to run for mayor of New York City,” Che said. “Cuomo plans to use his old campaign slogan of ‘honka, honka,’” he added while miming the inappropriate touching that the former governor was accused of. The joke quickly resonated with the live audience, drawing laughter and applause, but it also underscored the seriousness of the allegations that continue to haunt Cuomo’s reputation.
The accusations against Cuomo were a major scandal that ultimately led to his resignation. Several women came forward with claims of inappropriate behavior, including unwanted touching and suggestive remarks. While Cuomo has continuously denied any wrongdoing, the controversy effectively ended his tenure as governor. Despite this, his recent decision to re-enter the political arena has sparked outrage, particularly among those who accused him of misconduct.
One of Cuomo’s accusers, speaking exclusively to The New York Post, expressed her disgust over his attempt to stage a political comeback. “It’s absolutely disgusting that someone who’s an abuser, not simply of women, but of New Yorkers as a whole, would come out of his cave and think that he is the best person to help New York in crisis,” she stated. Her remarks reflect the widespread criticism Cuomo has faced since announcing his candidacy, with many arguing that he should not be given another opportunity to hold public office.
While Weekend Update led with the Cuomo story, it didn’t stop there. Co-host Colin Jost turned his attention to another political controversy—the tense meeting between Trump and Zelensky, in which the former president claimed that the Ukrainian leader was “gambling with World War III.” Jost capitalized on the absurdity of the statement, joking that people could now actually place bets on the possibility of global conflict.
“Now you actually can gamble on World War III . . . on FanDuel,” Jost quipped, referencing the popular sports betting platform. The joke drew a mix of laughs and groans from the audience, as the ongoing war in Ukraine remains a highly sensitive and politically charged issue.
The segment continued its rapid-fire satirical coverage with a lighthearted jab at tech mogul Elon Musk. Known for his unpredictable behavior and business ventures, Musk was the subject of yet another Weekend Update joke, this time targeting a mass email reportedly sent out by DOGE, an agency tied to his expanding business empire. The email required employees to submit reports on five things they had accomplished during the past week.
Jost didn’t miss the chance to poke fun at Musk’s well-documented personal life, remarking, “[That’s] easier for Elon to do, because all five of his things were ‘got a lady pregnant.’” The punchline landed well with the audience, highlighting Musk’s history of fathering multiple children with different women while balancing his various companies.
Weekend Update has long been a staple of Saturday Night Live, providing a satirical take on major news stories while holding public figures accountable through humor. This week’s episode was no different, as Che and Jost delivered a mix of political jabs, pop culture commentary, and sharp one-liners aimed at some of the biggest names in the news.
While Cuomo’s mayoral run remains a controversial topic, his decision to step back into the political spotlight ensures that he will continue to be a focal point of discussion. Whether or not his campaign gains traction, one thing is clear: comedians, political analysts, and critics alike will not let his past be forgotten. As for Weekend Update, the segment once again proved why it remains one of the most anticipated parts of SNL, bringing humor and sharp critique to the week’s biggest headlines.
Follow us to see more useful information, as well as to give us more motivation to update more useful information for you.
