SNL UK cold open jokes former Prince Andrew scandal was 'MI5 plan' to boost King Charles

The UK version of Saturday Night Live is drawing attention for its bold and controversial cold open, which took aim at Prince Andrew and his ties to Jeffrey Epstein.

In the sketch, the show imagines that the long-running scandal was actually part of a secret “29-year plan” by MI5 designed to improve the public image of King Charles III.

The satirical segment suggests that following the death of Princess Diana, intelligence officials decided the only way to make Charles more likable was to “decrease the likability of everyone around him.”

In one moment, an MI5 agent sarcastically praises Andrew as “charming, capable” and “a credit to princes everywhere,” underscoring the sketch’s biting tone and irony.

The cold open features exaggerated portrayals of members of the royal family, with the actor playing Andrew leaning into widely discussed controversies, including references to his infamous public statements and behavior.

The sketch is part of the debut run of SNL UK, which has already made headlines for its willingness to tackle sensitive topics and royal scandals with sharp British humor.

The real-life controversy surrounding Andrew stems from his association with Epstein, which led to intense public backlash and major consequences for his royal role in recent years.

The cold open has sparked mixed reactions online, with some viewers praising its bold satire while others questioned the handling of such serious subject matter.