The season finale of Saturday Night Live's 51st season featured host Will Ferrell as the ghost of Jeffrey Epstein, appearing to President Donald Trump in a cold open. Trump, played by James Austin Johnson, is visited by Epstein's ghost after a nap, with Epstein showing him visions of a chaotic future involving Kristi Noem, Pete Hegseth, and Kash Patel. The sketch ends with the duo singing 'Just the Two of Us' before nearly kissing.
In another highlight, Ferrell and Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith, who bears a striking resemblance to Ferrell, engaged in a comedic backstage confrontation. Smith attempted to hijack the show before being removed by the real Ferrell, who then took audience questions. Musical guest Sir Paul McCartney added to the confusion, mistaking Ferrell for Smith.
Other sketches included Ferrell as a doctor who accidentally removes a patient's penis and testicle during surgery, and a 'Midnight Matinee' short parodying the Battle of Helm's Deep from 'The Lord of the Rings'. Ferrell also reprised his role as intimidating drama teacher Mr. Koenig, alongside Molly Shannon as a choir teacher.
Weekend Update featured the annual joke swap between Colin Jost and Michael Che, with Jost reading a controversial joke about Michael Jackson. The episode closed out a strong season that saw new cast members coming into their own.
