SNL’s James Austin Johnson Portrays Trump in Surprising 'SNL U.K.' Crossover
A 'SNL' cast member played Donald Trump in a surprise 'SNL U.K.' cold open, delivering satirical lines about a prime ministerial job swap and British acting schools.

James Austin Johnson performed a Donald Trump impression in the latest 'SNL U.K.' cold open, creating a rare crossover moment between the American and British casts. The sketch depicted U.K. Prime Minister Andy Burnham, played by George Fouracres, and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, portrayed by Freddie Meredith, discussing Britain's support for the war effort.
Johnson’s Trump entered the scene claiming he appears whenever his name is mentioned, crediting a late, great Beetlejuice for the inspiration. When asked about his visit, the character suggested a job swap with Burnham, asserting that the American presidency is a difficult role filled with unpleasant people. Burnham rejected the offer, stating that public dislike had not yet set in.
The skit continued with Johnson’s Trump criticizing the local comedy landscape and questioning why the UK ensemble lacks a performer capable of the Trump impression. He mocked the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art as a "Royal Academy of Dogshit Actors" before concluding that Zelenskyy could reach out for help with any request other than war support.
Sources2
Original reporting and primary evidence.
- Variety — Entertainment NewsJames Austin Johnson’s Trump Stops by ‘SNL U.K.’ for Meeting With Burnham and Zelenskyy: ‘You Don’t Have One Guy Who Can Play Trump?’
- www.yahoo.comJames Austin Johnson’s Trump Stops by ‘SNL U.K.’ for Meeting With Burnham and Zelenskyy: ‘You Don’t Have One Guy Who Can Play Trump?’
Claim connections2
James Austin Johnson, a 'SNL' cast member, performed a Donald Trump impression in an 'SNL U.K.' cold open.
confirmedConnected sources2
The sketch involved George Fouracres as U.K. Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Freddie Meredith as Ukrainian President Zelenskyy.
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