Avid viewers of the hit show "Saturday Night Live" may soon see another actor portray Donald Trump. With the end of Alec Baldwin's contract to impersonate the new U.S. president, celebrities such as Taran Killam and Johnny Depp may be some of the candidates for the said role.
"Saturday Night Live" (SNL) and Baldwin's portrayal of Trump earned rave reviews given the actor's uncanny impersonation of the U.S. president-elect. With a blond-colored wig and trademark hand movements, the "30 Rock" star effectively captured the business mogul's various facial expressions and way of talking.
However, Baldwin's contract to appear on SNL as the former "The Apprentice" host has already ended. Aired on Nov. 7, the show's election special marked the actor's final portrayal of Trump.
Given the physical effort needed to effectively portray Trump, it appears that the actor may not be willing to reprise his iconic impersonation role. During Baldwin's guest appearance on WNYC's radio program "The Brian Lehrer Show," he recounted the difficulties he encountered while playing the U.S. president-elect.
Baldwin shared that he nearly hurt himself trying to emulate the businessman. He stated, "I almost sprained my jaw pushing my lower jaw forward to talk the way he does."
When asked if the actor would be interested in reprising his Trump role on SNL, he made mention of other plans and family activities. Having the chance to again spend time with his children during the weekends is a welcome change, according to Baldwin.
With the Hollywood star's departure from SNL, casting speculations posted on USA Today identified several celebrities who may take over Baldwin's impersonation role. Given Trump's win, Darrell Hammond who played Bill Clinton on the show would be free to reprise his former role as the new U.S. president.
Apart from Hammond, former cast member Taran Killam may be invited to impersonate Trump in upcoming SNL episodes. Comedian Beck Bennett would also be a good choice, as well as "Alice in Wonderland" star Johnny Depp.
Meanwhile, showrunners have invited SNL alum Kristen Wiig to join an upcoming episode, according to Variety. Scheduled for release on Nov. 19, the "Ghostbusters" actress will host the said episode that will feature British indie band, The xx.
"Saturday Night Live" airs every Saturday on NBC. Watch a compilation of Baldwin's Trump impersonations on SNL below: