SNL Hilariously Roasts Elon Musk and Trump's Tariffs in Star-Studded Cold Open

Introduction to the SNL Cold Open

The opening skit of an *SNL* episode serves as a cultural touchstone, often reflecting the socio-political climate of the time. On April 5, 2025, *Saturday Night Live* delivered a biting cold open that managed to encapsulate the absurdity of contemporary politics by featuring Mike Myers as an exaggerated version of Elon Musk. This skit, aimed squarely at satirizing Donald Trump's controversial tariff plan, highlighted the palpable anxiety within the economic sphere—an anxiety that had taken a notable toll on stock markets worldwide. The episode was a comedic yet insightful observation of current events, showcasing *SNL*'s ongoing commitment to timely satire.

The sketch further delved into Elon Musk's controversial involvement in politics, especially his roles that often blur the lines between business and governance. Musk's failed attempt to sway the Wisconsin Supreme Court election was turned into a running punchline, with Mike Myers skillfully caricaturing the tech mogul's eccentricity and unorthodox business philosophies. The timely satire emphasized how Musk's celebrity and influence are wielded in significant American political events, reflecting a culture where entertainment, business, and politics often intersect in unexpected ways. This underscores the public's ambivalence towards such influential figures.

A particularly memorable element of the cold open was the introduction of the "self-vandalizing" Tesla Model-V. This fictional car, a clever parody, underscored the real-world challenges Musk's ventures face, such as protests and vandalism targeting Tesla environments. With features like "self-smashing headlights" and "AI-powered graffiti," the sketch humorously critiqued the societal repercussions of Musk's controversial leadership style. The comedic brilliance lay in how it exaggerated real-world issues, poking fun not only at the controversies surrounding Musk's automotive empire but also the cultural phenomenon of Musk himself. The satire was both poignant and evocative, leaving an indelible mark on audiences.

By addressing the interconnected phenomena of Trump's polarizing policies and Musk's public persona, the SNL skit managed to serve as a poignant commentary on modern America. The cold open didn't just entertain—it engaged audiences in reflective analysis of current political and economic climates. In doing so, it highlighted the complexities that arise when influential figures leverage their power in the public domain, provoking discussions that extend beyond mere comedy.

Mike Myers as Elon Musk: A Satirical Portrayal

Mike Myers' portrayal of Elon Musk on Saturday Night Live (SNL) presents a unique blend of comedy and biting social commentary. In the cold open aired on April 5, 2025, Myers took on the persona of Musk, humorously critiquing the billionaire's often headline-grabbing antics and intertwining them with satirical insights into contemporary issues, such as Donald Trump's tariff plans. This performance cleverly highlights the absurdities of real-world policies and billionaire influence, delivering a humorous yet critical lens through which to view current events. For more on the cold open, visit the official recap on NBC.

Set against the backdrop of President Trump's controversial tariff announcement, the sketch used humor to comment on the negative stock market reaction and Musk's failed influence over the Wisconsin Supreme Court election, as noted in the episode. The segment cleverly mirrored the public paranoia over economic turmoil by depicting a fictional 'self-vandalizing' Tesla as a result of protests against the company's practices. According to NBC, the sketch creatively combined contemporary politics with the idiosyncrasies of Musk's public persona, providing a significant platform for viewers to laugh while reflecting on serious economic and political themes.

Mike Myers' satirical impersonation of Elon Musk extended beyond simple comedy; it reflected societal concerns about the influence of wealthy individuals in politics. The sketch profiled Musk's belated and unsuccessful endorsement of a Supreme Court candidate in Wisconsin, serving as a commentary on the challenges facing democracy when juxtaposed with significant financial power. SNL's lampooning was not merely for laughs but as a reminder of the complexities lurking beneath the caricature of a world where influence and money intertwine. To explore further, check out the detailed insights on NBC's website.

Stock Market Reactions to Trump's Tariff Plan

The announcement of Trump's tariff plan sent shockwaves through the financial markets, resulting in a sharp plunge in stock values. Investors reacted with anxiety and uncertainty, fearing the potential ramifications of increased trade barriers on global commerce. The tariffs, targeting crucial sectors and foreign partners, raised concerns about inflation, supply chain disruptions, and the overall economic health of the nation. Financial analysts and market strategists quickly took to social media and news outlets to analyze the possible fallout, with many voicing apprehension over a looming economic downturn [1](https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/mike-myers-elon-musk-trump-tariff-cold-open-april-5).

This reaction wasn't unexpected as market stakeholders have historically been sensitive to abrupt policy shifts that threaten free trade principles. Trump's tariffs, designed to protect domestic industries, were seen as a double-edged sword, offering both potential domestic economic benefits and international retaliatory risks. As economists scrambled to predict the long-run consequences, the immediate repercussion was clear: an unsettling market volatility that gripped Wall Street and highlighted the interconnectedness of global economies [1](https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/mike-myers-elon-musk-trump-tariff-cold-open-april-5).

Parallel to these economic concerns, the SNL cold open on April 5, 2025, sketched a satirical interpretation of the day’s events, starring Mike Myers as Elon Musk. This comedic portrayal not only entertained viewers but also served as a cultural commentary on the unease permeating financial markets. Musk, depicted humorously, attempted unsuccessfully to sway a crucial Wisconsin Supreme Court election with his political endorsement, mirroring real-world anxieties over the burgeoning influences of tech moguls in political realms [1](https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/mike-myers-elon-musk-trump-tariff-cold-open-april-5).

The market's downturn in response to Trump's tariffs reveals the delicate balance of investor confidence and policy decisions, illustrating how presidential announcements can trigger immediate and widespread economic impacts. It is a stark reminder of the complex dynamics between government policies and financial markets, where abrupt changes can lead to both panic and strategic recalibration among investors and policymakers alike. As the world watched, the need for careful consideration of economic strategies became increasingly evident [1](https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/mike-myers-elon-musk-trump-tariff-cold-open-april-5).

Elon Musk's Political Involvement and Its Outcome

Elon Musk's political involvement, particularly manifested during the Wisconsin Supreme Court election, serves as a notable instance of a technology magnate venturing into the often turbulent waters of political endorsement and influence. Supporting a candidate endorsed by former President Trump, Musk's efforts proved unsuccessful, highlighting the unpredictable nature of political campaigns even when backed by influential figures. The endeavor, heavily satirized on the *Saturday Night Live* episode aired on April 5, 2025, not only reflected on Musk's political maneuverings but also on the broader implications of individual involvement in political processes (NBC).

In the realm of political fallout, Musk’s engagement in the Wisconsin election does not only symbolize the influence of wealth in politics but also underscores the limitations and challenges of such involvement. His attempt to sway the election results was met with strong resistance and ultimately did not succeed, perhaps indicative of a larger public sentiment wary of corporate influence on democracy. The failure, mirrored in the SNL parody, also pointed to potential reputational risks for Musk and drew significant attention to the issue of political endorsements by high-profile figures (NBC).

Furthermore, the satirical portrayal of Musk in the *SNL* cold open reflects societal perspectives on his business practices and political involvement. The sketch intertwined Musk's real-life influence attempts with fictional elements like the "self-vandalizing" Tesla Model-V to underline the absurdities perceived in his actions and their outcomes. This portrayal resonated with public fears and criticisms regarding the tangible effects of Musk's political dabbling, while simultaneously sparking conversations about accountability and the responsible exercise of influence by wealthy entrepreneurs (NBC).

The Fictional 'Self-Vandalizing' Tesla Model-V

In a surreal blend of satire and reality, the fictional 'self-vandalizing' Tesla Model-V emerged as a comedic focal point on the *Saturday Night Live* episode aired on April 5, 2025. The sketch, featuring Mike Myers as Elon Musk, was a satirical exploration of a world where Teslas seemingly retaliate against anti-Tesla sentiments themselves. This fictional Model-V was depicted with whimsical and absurd features like 'self-smashing headlights' and 'AI-powered graffiti,' reflective of the real-life vandalism instances that Tesla vehicles have encountered. The idea cleverly parodied the intensified backlash against Tesla and Musk, amidst the political and economic climate influenced by Donald Trump's controversial tariff plan, as depicted in the sketch [NBC Insider](https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/mike-myers-elon-musk-trump-tariff-cold-open-april-5).

The introduction of the 'self-vandalizing' Tesla Model-V in the *SNL* sketch served as a humorous metaphor for the corporate and public tension surrounding Tesla. This fictional creation underlined the absurdity of the controversies that have enveloped Elon Musk and his ventures, making a pointed commentary on the challenging social dynamics Musk faces. Critics praised the creativity and comic timing of the skit, noting how this funny yet thought-provoking element highlighted the complex narrative of public and media interactions with Tesla. Furthermore, the model's addition in the sketch was not just a humoristic jab but also a critique of the discourse on modern technology's role in society, accentuated by public reactions to Musk's outspoken nature [NBC Insider](https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/mike-myers-elon-musk-trump-tariff-cold-open-april-5).

While entirely fictional, the 'self-vandalizing' aspect of the Tesla Model-V resonated with viewers as a satire of real-world events where Tesla vehicles have been targets of vandalism, sometimes viewed as a protest against Musk's corporate ethos and political stances. The exaggerated depiction of the Model-V in the sketch symbolizes the absurd lengths to which public perception and reactions can go in the polarized climate of today's politics and corporate competition. This fictional scenario also reflects the satire's key role in providing cultural critique, questioning the alignment between innovative branding and public sentiment towards high-profile figures like Musk [NBC Insider](https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/mike-myers-elon-musk-trump-tariff-cold-open-april-5).

Expert Opinions on the SNL Sketch

Expert opinions on the SNL sketch from April 5, 2025, varied widely, highlighting its impact and the roles of key figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump. One well-regarded critique described the sketch as 'a biting and surreal satire,' capturing economic anxieties surrounding Trump's tariff policy. By parodying current economic policies, it effectively mirrored real-world concerns about potential market failures and an impending recession. The satirical approach of the sketch was lauded for its astute reflection of the complexities of Trump's plan, cleverly encapsulating the fears of a 'Make America Great Depression Again' scenario. This sharp critique served not only to entertain but also to provoke thought on pressing economic issues, showcasing SNL's continued relevance in political discourse. For more insights, see the detailed review at .

Several experts commended Mike Myers for his portrayal of Elon Musk, noting that the 'self-vandalizing' Tesla Model-V concept was particularly resonant. This fictional invention cleverly mimics real-world challenges faced by Tesla, serving as a satirical commentary on public perception and societal reactions to Musk's ventures. Such innovative comedy doesn't just entertain; it provides a lens through which to view the underlying tensions between innovation and public acceptance. Observers found the narrative both humorous and thought-provoking, likening it to stunts Musk might realistically undertake, which adds layers to the character's portrayal. An in-depth discussion on this aspect can be found .

Not everyone viewed the sketch positively, though. Some critics felt certain elements, such as jokes about ICE, lacked creativity and failed to hit the mark compared to the otherwise sharply crafted humor in the segment. These criticisms underscore the challenge of balancing topical comedy with sensitivity and originality. SNL has historically been known for its ability to push the envelope, but this also necessitates careful handling of subjects that can polarize audiences, illustrated by mixed reviews within different circles. Further analysis on these critiques is available .

In contrast, Myers' comedic timing and character approach were praised, especially his absurd portrayal of Musk. The humor in depicting a 'self-vandalizing' Tesla struck a chord with many viewers, who found it hilariously absurd yet intriguingly possible. This highlights how satire can play a crucial role in public dialogues about influential personalities and the impact of their business decisions. Experts appreciated how this element captured public sentiment, framing controversial topics in a way that sparked conversation while entertaining. NBC's review offers additional insights, which you can delve into .

Public Reactions: Humor and Criticism

The *Saturday Night Live* (SNL) cold open on April 5, 2025, featuring Mike Myers as Elon Musk, effectively used humor and satire to provoke laughter and spark dialogue among viewers. The sketch, which lampooned Donald Trump's controversial tariff plan and Musk's political maneuverings, was met with mixed reactions from the public. On one hand, audiences appreciated the absurdity and wit of the performances, particularly the portrayal of the "self-vandalizing" Tesla, which resonated with those critical of Musk's business practices and political entanglements. This inventive humor was lauded for its pointed critique of real-world events, as seen in reviews that praised the segment's audacity and surreal nature in capturing public sentiments [NBC Insider](https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/mike-myers-elon-musk-trump-tariff-cold-open-april-5).

However, the sketch didn’t sit well with everyone. Some viewers and critics noted that while the satire was sharp, certain jokes fell flat or seemed poorly crafted, such as those concerning immigration enforcement, which lacked the sharpness of other political humor in the episode. Musk himself was among the critics, reportedly expressing that SNL had lost its comedic touch, a sentiment that reflects the polarizing effect of the sketch [CBS42](https://www.cbs42.com/hill-politics/musk-responds-after-snl-roasts-trump-tariffs-tesla-vandalism/). Despite these criticisms, the segment succeeded in its primary aim: to generate discussion on pressing economic and social issues by leveraging humor as a tool for social commentary [NBC Insider](https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/mike-myers-elon-musk-trump-tariff-cold-open-april-5).

The depiction of Musk's failed attempt to influence the Wisconsin Supreme Court election provided additional fodder for debate. While some viewers saw this as a humorous and insightful take on the tech mogul’s involvement in politics, others were concerned about the broader implications of his actions on democratic processes. This sketch, therefore, not only reflected the nation’s political anxieties but also contributed to a conversation about the role of wealth and influence in American politics [Hollywood Reporter](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/snl-mocks-trump-tariff-plan-host-jack-black-1236182741).

In summary, the SNL cold open from April 2025 served as a cultural touchstone by blending humor and criticism in a manner that engaged the public on issues of economic policy and corporate influence. It reaffirmed the role of satire in bringing important discussions to the forefront, even as it highlighted the division of opinions on these issues. The sketch's reception underscored the challenge of creating comedy in an era marked by significant political and social tensions [Vulture](https://www.vulture.com/article/saturday-night-live-recap-season-50-episode-16-jack-black.html).

Future Implications of the SNL Satire

The April 5, 2025 episode of *Saturday Night Live* (SNL), featuring a biting cold open with Mike Myers portraying Elon Musk, sparked a significant discussion about its implications for the future. In an era where satire intertwines with reality, SNL’s take on Donald Trump’s tariff policies, along with Musk’s political maneuvers, prompts reflection on broader socio-economic consequences. The sketch, which humorously addressed the economic uncertainties linked to tariffs, raises the possibility of an economic downturn reminiscent of past recessions. Trump's policies, as satirically portrayed through the 'Make America Great Depression Again' trope, point to lingering fears of inflation and declining consumer confidence [NBC](https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/mike-myers-elon-musk-trump-tariff-cold-open-april-5).

Moreover, the representation of a fictional 'self-vandalizing' Tesla Model-V serves as both a critique and a reflection of societal tensions. The sketch touches on real-world grievances related to Elon Musk and his companies, symbolizing a broader social backlash. This satirical device reflects potential future social unrest, significantly driven by public dissatisfaction with high-profile personalities and political figures. It's a portrayal that suggests Tesla might continue to navigate through a landscape marked by both admiration and resistance [NBC](https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/mike-myers-elon-musk-trump-tariff-cold-open-april-5).

The comedic lens of SNL also highlights concerns about political influence, particularly Musk’s real and fictional attempts within the sketch to sway electoral outcomes, which underscores growing worries about wealthy individuals’ roles in political affairs. This scenario depicted by SNL might serve as a prophetic critique of ongoing political polarization and the complexities involved in democratic processes. The fictionalized events raise pertinent questions about the future of political integrity and the impact of wealth on governance [NBC](https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/mike-myers-elon-musk-trump-tariff-cold-open-april-5).

Though these portrayals stem from comedic satire, they underscore genuine anxieties about the future. How tariffs might affect the economy, the potential escalation of social unrest, and the increasing influence of wealth in politics are not merely topics for entertainment but critical issues for public discourse. As such, SNL's sketch serves both as entertainment and a medium provoking thought and discussion about the direction society is heading [NBC](https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/mike-myers-elon-musk-trump-tariff-cold-open-april-5).