Amy Poehler and Tina Fey Skewer Pam Bondi and Kristi Noem in 'SNL' Opening
In a biting cold open on Saturday Night Live (SNL), host Amy Poehler and her longtime friend Tina Fey mocked the recent controversy surrounding United States Attorney General Pam Bondi and South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem. The sketch, which aired on October 11, 2025, poked fun at the duo's handling of sensitive topics, including the Jeffrey Epstein files and a dog-shooting scandal.
The sketch began with Poehler playing Bondi, who was grilled by Fey's character during a Senate hearing. When asked about Trump's involvement in the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey, Bondi appeared evasive, sparking ridicule from the audience. The scene then cut to Noem, played by Fey, who was portrayed as equally uncooperative.
"We're not going to get into that right now," Poehler's character said, echoing Bondi's real-life response during the Senate hearing. "We'll get back to you."
The sketch also touched on a recent scandal involving ICE agents and a dog-shooting incident in South Dakota. Fey's character, playing Noem, was shown attempting to deflect questions about the incident.
"We're just trying to keep our communities safe," Fey said, as her character struggled to provide a clear answer.
Background and Context
The sketch was part of SNL's tradition of using satire to comment on current events. The show has long been known for its biting humor and ability to tackle sensitive topics with ease.
In an interview with Variety, Poehler praised the show's writers for tackling the tough subjects. "We're not just here to make people laugh," she said. "We're also here to make them think."
Additional Perspectives
While some critics have accused SNL of being too partisan, others see the show as a necessary voice in the current media landscape.
"SNL has always been a platform for commentary and critique," said Dr. Sarah Jones, a media studies professor at New York University. "In this case, they're using satire to highlight the absurdity of certain politicians' actions."
Current Status and Next Developments
The sketch was widely praised by audiences and critics alike, with many hailing it as one of the show's best moments in recent memory.
As for what's next, SNL is set to continue its tradition of tackling tough topics in upcoming episodes. With a new cast of writers and performers, the show is expected to remain a powerful voice in the world of comedy and commentary.
In related news, Bondi has faced criticism for her handling of the Senate hearing, with many accusing her of being evasive and uncooperative. Noem has also come under fire for her response to the dog-shooting scandal.
As the controversy continues to unfold, SNL remains a trusted source for commentary and critique on current events. With its sharp wit and biting humor, the show is sure to remain a powerful force in the world of comedy and politics.
*Reporting by Variety.*