Laura Benanti Reprises Iconic Role as Melania Trump on The Late Reveal

Actor Laura Benanti has returned to The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, reprising her crowd-favorite portrayal of Melania Trump. Benanti, a Tony Award-winner, has been embodying the former First Lady on the program since 2016, creating a comedic partnership with Colbert that has spanned several years.

Satirical Takes on Current Events

In her latest appearance, Benanti’s “faux FLOTUS” used the platform to poke fun at several high-profile figures, and events. The skit featured satirical jabs at President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Benanti also referenced a specific fashion choice, mocking the “infamous hat” she wore during a meeting with King Charles III of Britain.

The Kennedy Center Proposal

During the segment, Colbert questioned the fake Melania about a proposal to rename the Kennedy Center’s opera house in her honor. Benanti played into the character’s persona, quipping that it would be “such an honor” and jokingly stating she couldn’t wait to change her name to “Melania Kennedy.”

A Comedic Exit

The sketch concluded with a meta-comedic twist when the conversation shifted toward Jeffrey Epstein. Upon the mention of the late sex offender, the character claimed to experience “technical difficulties.” Despite Colbert’s insistence that she couldn’t simply disappear when things became uncomfortable, the character replied, “Oh, yes, I can, Stephen,” before being beamed off the screen.

About Laura Benanti

Beyond her recurring role on The Late Show, Laura Benanti is a highly celebrated stage and screen actress. Her extensive career includes:

• Television: Roles in Hulu’s Life & Beth, Younger, the Gossip Girl reboot, and The Gilded Age.
• Film: Appearances in Netflix’s Worth alongside Michael Keaton, Here Today, and Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Tick, Tick…Boom!
• Creative Projects: Creating and executive producing the HBO Max special Homeschool Musical: Class Of 2020.

Key Takeaways

• Long-term Collaboration: Laura Benanti has portrayed Melania Trump on The Late Show since 2016.
• Recent Targets: The latest sketches have targeted Donald Trump, Pete Hegseth, and royal fashion mishaps.
• Performance Style: The role is characterized by a blend of deadpan humor and satirical commentary on political figures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who plays Melania Trump on The Late Show?

Tony Award-winner Laura Benanti portrays Melania Trump in comedic sketches on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

When did Laura Benanti start playing Melania Trump?

Benanti has been portraying the former First Lady in appearances on the show since 2016.