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Trump Mocks Gas Prices in SNL Cold Open

3/15/2026

44 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

On March 14, 2026, Saturday Night Live (SNL) aired a cold open with James Austin Johnson as U.S. President Donald Trump addressing a family at a gas station.
Trump mocks past promises and blames high gas prices on the war with Iran.
The segment references Timothée Chalamet's ballet and opera comments.
Colin Jost, portraying Pete Hegseth, expresses frustration with media portrayals of his statements.
Harry Styles hosted the episode.

History

Historical Context

The Iran Hostage Crisis began on November 4, 1979, when 66 Americans were taken hostage at the U.S. Embassy in Tehran amid the Iranian Revolution. The crisis, fueled by demands for the extradition of the deposed Shah, lasted 444 days and ended with the Algiers Accords on January 20, 1981. This event severely damaged U.S.-Iran relations and continues to shape geopolitical dynamics today.

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Story summary

On March 14, 2026, Saturday Night Live (SNL) aired a cold open with James Austin Johnson as U.S. President Donald Trump addressing a family at a gas station.
Trump mocks past promises and blames high gas prices on the war with Iran.
The segment references Timothée Chalamet's ballet and opera comments.
Colin Jost, portraying Pete Hegseth, expresses frustration with media portrayals of his statements.
Harry Styles hosted the episode.

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