During a recent episode of the popular show Saturday Night Live (SNL), a surprising new character was introduced to viewers. Elie Mystal, the former editor of prominent legal news publisher Above the Law, was impersonated by none other than Kenan Thompson, one of the show’s longest-serving comedians.
Donning a character in Thompson’s likeness, Mystal made his appearance in a revamped rendition of the widely remembered “Barry Gibb Talk Show” scene, a familiar sketch dating back to comedian Jimmy Fallon’s tenure on the program. The segment traditionally replaces political satire with visual comedy, specifically poking fun at a musician who hadn’t been in the limelight for more than two decades prior to SNL’s primary viewer demographic.
The reimagination of this sketch saw the fictional Gibb brothers discussing the anticipated 2024 election, inviting “Elie Mystal” as a special guest. Although Mystal’s character didn’t enjoy much airtime in this particular sketch, there is speculation that Thompson might bring back the character for future episodes during the election season. More details about the episode can be found here.
In an interesting twist, Thompson, as Mystal’s character, cracks a joke comparing himself to Don King – the infamous boxing promoter. This analogy might seem obscure to a mainstream audience, however, readers of Above the Law may appreciate that it alludes to the landmark Supreme Court ruling of Mapp v. Ohio. A bombing at King’s residence led to a warrantless search of Dolly Mapp’s dwelling, setting a significant precedent in constitutional law. In this context, the double reference to King serves as a playful means of hinting at the influence Mystal – a bystander to history just like King – may have over the unfolding narrative of American justice.
Of course, it transpires that this nuanced legal one-liner was nothing more than an elaborate way of making a classic ‘fat joke’.
Interestingly, this is not the first time SNL has parodied a character from the legal world. To walk down memory lane, check out this classic SNL character.
Changes like these have been instrumental in keeping SNL fresh and topical for its viewers. As the line between politics, pop culture, and news continues to blur, it would not be surprising to see more characters from diverse backgrounds making appearances on the late-night show.