SNL’s Historic Reunion: Kate McKinnon’s RBG Returns to Welcome Ketanji Brown Jackson
In a truly unforgettable moment that only Saturday Night Live could deliver, audiences were treated to a monumental crossover event. The show’s cold open on Saturday, April 9, saw Ego Nwodim make her highly anticipated debut as Ketanji Brown Jackson, the newly confirmed Supreme Court Justice. However, the true surprise came with the resurfacing of a beloved character: Kate McKinnon‘s iconic portrayal of the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. This meeting of judicial giants, albeit in a comedic sketch, resonated deeply, offering both humor and profound respect for two pivotal figures in American legal history.
The skit unfolded in the familiar setting of the Oval Office, where Ego Nwodim’s Ketanji Brown Jackson was seen conversing with President Joe Biden, played by James Austin Johnson. President Biden, visibly ecstatic about her confirmation, could barely contain his joy. He repeatedly savored the sound of her new title, exclaiming, “Ketanji Brown Jackson, Supreme Court Justice!” In a lighthearted exchange, Nwodim’s character playfully challenged him, teasing, “I bet you couldn’t say that three times fast,” before genuinely thanking him for his unwavering support throughout her confirmation process. This opening exchange perfectly set the tone, blending the immense gravitas of the situation with SNL’s characteristic comedic touch, highlighting the genuine excitement surrounding this historic appointment.
RBG passes on some wisdom to Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson pic.twitter.com/PCwbIzc2Of
— Saturday Night Live – SNL (@nbcsnl) April 10, 2022
President Biden continued his jubilant remarks, emphasizing the historical significance of Justice Jackson’s appointment. “I always wanted to put a Black woman in the court — so that’s one campaign goal down and 74 to go,” he quipped, drawing laughter while underscoring the groundbreaking nature of the moment. He went on to describe it as a “big damn deal,” humorously comparing its revolutionary impact to something as mundane as “wearing Crocs in public.” Urging Justice Jackson to “feel the weight of history” in her new role, Biden then suggested, “Sometimes I like to imagine talking to all the great Americans who came before me,” before abruptly excusing himself. It was at this precise, poignant moment that the stage was set for the remarkable and much-anticipated return of Kate McKinnon’s Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who emerged from the shadows, a spectral yet powerful presence in the hallowed halls of the Oval Office. The real-life Justice Ginsburg, a towering figure in American law, had sadly passed away at the age of 87 on September 18, 2020, after a courageous battle with cancer, making McKinnon’s portrayal even more cherished and symbolic.
The sight of the spectral RBG understandably left Ego Nwodim’s Ketanji bewildered and questioning, “How is this possible?” This reaction perfectly captured the surreal yet celebratory nature of the encounter. McKinnon’s RBG, ever the sage and witty figure, responded with characteristic deadpan humor, “You tell me, it’s your imagination,” acknowledging the fantastical element of their meeting while simultaneously empowering Justice Jackson. As Ketanji began to formulate questions, seeking guidance for her monumental journey ahead on the Supreme Court, RBG’s initial piece of advice was delivered with classic comedic timing: “Here’s my advice: always label your other lunches.” This seemingly trivial but utterly hilarious tip underscored the human element of even the most esteemed positions, reminding viewers that even Supreme Court Justices face relatable, everyday challenges. Beyond the humor, McKinnon’s RBG conveyed a profound message of pride and encouragement. “I’m so proud of you, you’re doing a great job,” she affirmed, before delivering a powerful, optimistic statement about the enduring nature of justice: “…in the end, people do the right thing!” This exchange served as a symbolic passing of the torch, a blessing from a legal legend to a new beacon of hope and progress.
Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s confirmation on Thursday, April 7, marked a truly historic milestone in American democracy. She was officially voted into the Supreme Court, becoming the first Black woman ever to serve as an Associate Justice. This momentous achievement shattered a significant barrier and profoundly reshaped the composition of the nation’s highest court. Following her confirmation, Justice Jackson expressed her deep humility and honor. “I am humbled and honored to continue in this fashion as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States,” she stated, reiterating her commitment to “working with brilliant colleagues, supporting and defending the Constitution, and steadfastly upholding the rule of law.” Her words echoed the very principles that Ruth Bader Ginsburg championed throughout her distinguished career, making the SNL sketch not just a comedic piece, but a powerful affirmation of shared values and a continuing legacy of justice.
Kate McKinnon’s portrayal of Ruth Bader Ginsburg has been one of Saturday Night Live’s most iconic and beloved recurring characters. For years, McKinnon brilliantly captured RBG’s fierce intelligence, unwavering resolve, and surprisingly sharp wit, affectionately termed her “Gins-burns.” Her performances brought the revered Justice to a wider audience, humanizing her while also celebrating her legal brilliance and cultural impact. McKinnon’s RBG often appeared in skits, delivering scathing critiques of political figures, offering pearls of wisdom, and even engaging in impromptu workouts, all delivered with a distinct New York accent and an air of unshakeable authority. When the real Justice Ginsburg passed away in 2020, McKinnon’s character was retired, making her unexpected return in the cold open a particularly poignant and emotional moment for viewers. Her reappearance wasn’t just for a laugh; it was a deeply respectful tribute, allowing a beloved comedic interpretation of a national icon to symbolically welcome another trailblazer. This act underscored SNL’s unique ability to blend political commentary with heartfelt homage, using humor as a vehicle for cultural reflection and celebration.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s legacy is immense and indelible. Nominated by President Bill Clinton, she served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court from 1993 until her death in 2020. Throughout her tenure, RBG became a progressive icon, known for her groundbreaking majority opinions and powerful dissents that shaped American jurisprudence, particularly in the areas of gender equality, civil rights, and reproductive rights. She was a tireless advocate for justice, a brilliant legal mind, and an inspiration to generations of women and legal scholars. Her passing left a significant void, but her influence continues to reverberate through the legal community and society at large. The SNL skit, by bringing her character back, provided a symbolic continuity, suggesting that the spirit of justice and progress she embodied is now being carried forward by new generations of legal minds, personified by Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson.
Saturday Night Live has long stood as a titan of cultural commentary, using its platform to dissect, satirize, and often celebrate significant societal events and political figures. The cold open, in particular, is frequently dedicated to current affairs, setting the tone for the entire episode with a blend of satire and sharp observation. The skit featuring McKinnon’s RBG and Nwodim’s Ketanji Brown Jackson exemplified SNL’s mastery of this craft. It was more than just a comedic sketch; it was a carefully crafted piece of political theater that recognized the monumental nature of Justice Jackson’s confirmation while simultaneously paying homage to the enduring legacy of Justice Ginsburg. By bringing these two figures together in a fictional Oval Office, SNL facilitated a symbolic passing of the torch, acknowledging the historical significance of a Black woman joining the highest court, and doing so with both reverence and signature humor. It allowed for a moment of collective reflection and celebration, reminding audiences of the progress made and the vital importance of representation in all branches of government.
The “meeting of greats” on SNL was a powerful illustration of continuity, progress, and legacy within the American legal system. It encapsulated the hopes and dreams of many who seek a more just and equitable society. Kate McKinnon’s return as RBG, a character retired out of respect for the real Justice’s passing, was a perfect symbolic gesture—a nod from the past to the future. It affirmed that while individual figures may pass, the ideals they fought for endure and are taken up by those who follow. Ego Nwodim’s poised and confident portrayal of Ketanji Brown Jackson underscored the profound significance of her real-world appointment, marking a moment of historical importance that transcends mere politics. This skit was a testament to SNL’s unique ability to capture the zeitgeist, offering both laughter and a moment of profound reflection on American values and the ongoing pursuit of justice for all.
In conclusion, the SNL cold open featuring the return of Kate McKinnon’s Ruth Bader Ginsburg to welcome Ego Nwodim’s Ketanji Brown Jackson was a masterclass in comedic timing, cultural commentary, and heartfelt tribute. It skillfully blended humor with the deep historical significance of Justice Jackson’s confirmation, reinforcing her role as a pioneering figure while honoring the indelible legacy of Justice Ginsburg. This brilliant sketch not only entertained but also served as a powerful reminder of progress, the importance of representation, and the enduring spirit of justice that continues to shape the United States.