The latest episode of Saturday Night Live featured a cold opening set in the Republican National Committee’s offices in Washington, D.C. The skit involved cast members Andrew Dismukes and Ashley Padilla preparing to film advertisements aimed at energizing the GOP base as midterm elections approach. The political climate appears challenging for the party, adding relevance and urgency to the segment.

In a promotional shoot, host Dakota Johnson took center stage alongside musical guests Turnstile. Photographed by Rosalind O’Connor for NBC and Getty Images, the promo highlighted the show’s blend of comedy and music. Johnson made an intriguing addition to her hosting duties by bringing out Taylor Swift, who she referred to as her ‘literal therapist.’