SNL Tackles Noem’s DHS Ouster and Iran Tensions in Latest Cold Open

Saturday Night Live’s (SNL) March 7th episode, hosted by Ryan Gosling, opened with a cold open that satirized recent political events, specifically the firing of Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security and the escalating situation in Iran.

Noem’s “Self-Deportation”

The sketch featured Ashley Padilla as Kristi Noem, responding to her recent dismissal by President Trump. Padilla’s Noem insisted she wasn’t fired, declaring, “I self-deported.” The humor stemmed from Noem’s controversial tenure at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and her recent congressional testimony regarding a $220 million airport advertising campaign and internal relationships, which she attempted to blame on Donald Trump as reported by Deadline.

Padilla’s portrayal included a line referencing cosmetic surgery, quipping, “As I told my plastic surgeon, the work is never done,” a nod to the ongoing scrutiny of her public image.

Hegseth’s Take on Iran

Colin Jost played Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, delivering a press briefing on the situation in Iran. Jost’s Hegseth characterized the media’s questioning as excessive and framed the U.S. Military actions with provocative analogies. He stated, “You’re all playing chess and I’m playing ‘Grand Theft Auto,’” and described the U.S. Approach to Iran as “treating Iran like the Breathalyzer in my car — we’re blowing it the hell up,” according to Variety.

The sketch also touched upon the broader geopolitical context, referencing recent primaries and the funeral of Jesse Jackson.

Gosling’s Return and Upcoming Guests

Ryan Gosling returned to host SNL for the fourth time, promoting his upcoming film, “Project Hail Mary.” The show also previewed next week’s episode, which will feature Harry Styles as both host and musical guest, marking his seventh overall appearance on the show as noted by Deadline.