The Evolution of Maya Rudolph’s Portrayal of Kamala Harris on “Saturday Night Live”
When Maya Rudolph first took the stage as Kamala Harris on “Saturday Night Live” in September 2019, she quickly established a vibrant persona. With a cocktail in hand, Rudolph’s Harris was characterized as America’s fun aunt, playfully coining the term “funt” while embodying a smooth-talking lady lawyer, complete with undeniable sex appeal and the power of subpoena. Over the years, as Harris’s journey in American politics transformed—from a rising Democratic star to a thwarted presidential candidate, and finally, to a sudden nominee—Rudolph’s portrayal has evolved significantly.
What began as a lighthearted depiction has deepened into a more serious representation. Today, Rudolph’s Harris exudes a no-nonsense demeanor, showcasing her as a Glock-toting boss surrounded by a cast of bumbling men. “Well, well, well. Look who fell out of that coconut tree,” Rudolph (as Harris) quipped in the season premiere last month. “The funt has been rebooted. 2 Funt, 2 Furious.” While the humor remains, there’s a palpable shift towards gravitas.
Political characters on “S.N.L.” are seldom exact impersonations; instead, they thrive on exaggeration and humor. Iconic portrayals often amplify a politician’s quirks, resulting in high-volume parodies. Think of Will Ferrell as George W. Bush, Dana Carvey as his father, Larry David as Bernie Sanders, or Tina Fey as Sarah Palin. Each actor brought their unique flair, creating memorable caricatures that resonated with audiences.
Eight years ago, during Hillary Clinton’s presidential run, Kate McKinnon’s portrayal encapsulated a blend of stiffness and animation, capturing Clinton’s struggle to articulate her ambition and credentials in a way that resonated with the American public. This performance not only served as an impression but also as a powerful embodiment of female frustration, contrasting sharply with Donald J. Trump’s brash persona.
Kamala Harris presents a distinct challenge for an actress. Unlike Clinton, Harris is less familiar to the average viewer and does not heavily emphasize the historic significance of her candidacy. Her approach to Donald Trump leans more towards mockery and ridicule, showcasing a playful yet complex character. This duality—campy yet careful—makes Harris both engaging and enigmatic, a combination that Rudolph captures with finesse.
