The Unlikely Laughter of Melania Trump
Melania Trump has often been seen with a less-than-pleased expression when in the presence of her husband, Donald Trump. These moments have led many to speculate about her true feelings toward the former president. However, there were instances when she was genuinely amused — not by her husband himself, but by someone who impersonated him. Alec Baldwin’s portrayal of Donald Trump on Saturday Night Live during his presidency became one of the most iconic and enduring impressions in the show's history. Baldwin even won an Emmy for his work in 2017. While James Austin Johnson currently takes on the role, Baldwin’s version remains a favorite among many, including the first lady.
During a speaking engagement at the 92nd Street Y in Manhattan in March 2025, Alec Baldwin shared a revealing story about a comment made by former press secretary Sean Spicer. According to Page Six, Spicer told Baldwin and other members of the SNL cast that "Melania watches the show every Saturday night. And she points at the TV and says 'That's what he's like! That is what he's like! Exactly! Alec Baldwin is exactly like Donald!'" Baldwin recalled that the cast members were laughing uncontrollably at the remark, adding that "the first lady loves when they give it to him, you know what I mean?"
This revelation contrasts sharply with Donald Trump’s own views on SNL. He has consistently criticized the show and its performers, especially Baldwin. If Melania truly enjoys the satire, she would likely keep it to herself, as her husband has never been known for his tolerance of such portrayals.
A History of Tension and Friendship
Despite their current rivalry, there was a time when Donald Trump and Alec Baldwin had a friendly relationship. At one point, Trump even offered Baldwin a stay in one of his penthouses. Baldwin expressed his gratitude in a thank-you note, which Trump later included in his book Letters to Trump (via The Telegraph). The two were seen together at several events, including the Golden Globes and a breast cancer research fundraiser, appearing cordial and amicable.
However, this dynamic shifted dramatically once Baldwin began impersonating Trump on SNL. The comedian’s portrayal brought attention to the president’s behavior, leading to a growing tension between the two men. During a 2018 appearance on The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon, Fallon mentioned a social media feud that had erupted between them over the impression. Baldwin described the experience as “agony,” prompting Trump to respond on X (formerly Twitter): “Alec, it was agony for those who were forced to watch.” Baldwin retaliated with a tweet that read, “Agony though it may be, I'd like to hang in there for the impeachment hearings, the resignation speech, the farewell helicopter ride to Mara-A-Lago [sic]. You know. The Good Stuff.”
The Evolution of Trump Impersonations on SNL
Currently, James Austin Johnson plays Donald Trump on SNL, but the show has featured several other actors who have taken on the role. Chloe Fineman is known for her spot-on impersonation of Melania Trump, while her predecessor, Cecily Strong, also delivered a convincing performance. Strong shared a memorable anecdote about Trump’s reaction to her portrayal. During an appearance on The Tonight Show in 2018, she mentioned that Trump had once told her that his wife enjoyed her work. She added, “But I've heard through the grapevine that she watches the show and she likes it.” This suggests that Melania may have a more relaxed attitude toward parody than her husband, who has always been highly sensitive to criticism.
While the exact preferences of Melania Trump regarding the various portrayals of her husband remain unclear, it’s evident that the SNL sketches have left a lasting impact on both the public and the Trump family. Whether through Baldwin’s original impression or the current interpretations, the show continues to reflect and sometimes exaggerate the realities of political life in America.
