NBC announced Wednesday that Jim Carrey will join “Saturday Night Live” to take on the role of Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden when the show returns for its 46th season on Oct. 3, the start of five consecutive broadcasts of the program.
According to the network, “SNL” is planning to have a “limited in-studio audience” at 30 Rockefeller Center for the new season and is working with New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s team to ensure safety for all involved amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Jim Carrey is our new Joe Biden! pic.twitter.com/hBJPRJl6Ja
— Saturday Night Live – SNL (@nbcsnl) September 16, 2020
Carrey, a two-time Golden Globe winner, is a curious choice to play the former vice president considering he’s not a part of the cast and that former “SNL” member Jason Sudeikis is known for playing Biden. Woody Harrelson also portrayed Biden earlier this year.
I can’t really picture Jim Carrey as Joe Biden, especially since Jason Sudeikis is perfect in the role, but he’s one of the best impersonators ever, so color me interested. https://t.co/mzauv3P7lU
— Frank Pallotta (@frankpallotta) September 16, 2020
“There was some interest on his part,” show creator Lorne Michaels told Vulture. “And then we responded, obviously, positively. But it came down to discussions about what the take was. He and Colin Jost had a bunch of talks. He and I as well. He will give the part energy and strength, and … hopefully, it’s funny.”
Michaels also confirmed that Alec Baldwin will return to play President Donald Trump, Maya Rudolph will play Biden’s running mate Kamala Harris, and cast member Beck Bennett will portray Vice President Mike Pence.
