Will Ferrell appears as Jeffrey Epstein to taunt Donald Trump in 'SNL' cold open
Photo: SNL
Will Ferrell made a surprise return to Saturday Night Live during the Season 51 finale, appearing as Jeffrey Epstein in a provocative cold open centered on Donald Trump.
The sketch featured James Austin Johnson as Trump, who falls asleep and is visited by Epstein’s ghost in a parody of A Christmas Carol. Ferrell, dressed in chains, taunted the former president with the line, “People will always associate you with me.” The remark drew one of the biggest reactions of the night.
Throughout the sketch, Epstein’s ghost warned Trump about his political future while introducing surreal visions involving members of his administration. The satirical segment took aim at Trump’s controversies and his long-scrutinized connection to Epstein.
the ghost of Jeffrey Epstein pays Trump a visit pic.twitter.com/CjxMmIdYpT
According to Variety, the sketch marked the first time Saturday Night Live has depicted Epstein as a character in its political satire. Ferrell’s cameo was kept under wraps until the episode aired, making it one of the most talked-about moments of the season finale.
Ferrell hosted the episode, his first time emceeing the show since 2019. The finale also featured Paul McCartney as the musical guest.
The episode included the return of several fan-favorite characters and sketches, but Ferrell’s unexpected turn as Epstein quickly dominated online conversation, closing out Saturday Night Live’s 51st season with one of its most controversial and memorable cold opens.