Mike Myers Protests Trump's Canada Proposal on SNL
Can a t-shirt become a powerful political statement? During Saturday Night Live's latest episode, Canadian comedy legend Mike Myers delivered an unexpected message about his homeland's sovereignty that instantly went viral. His bold fashion choice during the show's curtain call came amid rising tensions between the U.S. and Canada, sparked by recent controversial comments from former President Donald Trump about making Canada the 51st state.
Background: Mike Myers' Surprise SNL Appearance
The March 1st episode of Saturday Night Live featured an unforeseen appearance by comedy veteran Mike Myers, who seamlessly integrated himself into the show's politically charged Cold Open. The enigmatic comedian portrayed a chainsaw-wielding Elon Musk, interrupting a tense scene between actors portraying Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office.
Myers' portrayal was particularly timely, as it satirized Musk's recent controversial chainsaw demonstration at a conservative event. The sketch saw Myers burst into the scene, brandishing his prop chainsaw and declaring to Trump, "Donald, what are you doing in my office? You know I'm the president now, right?"
This marked Myers' second SNL appearance in just two weeks, following his memorable participation in the show's 50th anniversary special (SNL50). During that celebration, he had delighted audiences by reviving his beloved character Linda Richman, demonstrating his enduring connection to the show where he first rose to fame in the 1980s.
The Canadian-born actor's appearance alongside host Shane Gillis and musical guest Tate McRae maintained SNL's tradition of surprise cameos, which often feature former cast members. Fellow Canadian and SNL alumnus Martin Short had also recently appeared on the SNL50 special, where he playfully referenced the mounting U.S.-Canada tensions by listing prominent Canadian actors, including Myers himself, as he was "arrested" by ICE during a comedic bit.
Details: Mike Myers' Political Statement on Trump's Proposal
During the show's traditional curtain call, Myers orchestrated a calculated sartorial protest that immediately captured media attention. Standing alongside host Shane Gillis, the Austin Powers star dramatically opened his vest to reveal a t-shirt emblazoned with "Canada is not for sale" alongside the Canadian flag, creating an indelible moment of political commentary.
The provocative statement directly challenged Trump's recent rhetoric about incorporating Canada as the 51st U.S. state through economic pressure. Myers' gesture resonated particularly strongly given his status as one of Hollywood's most recognizable Canadian exports, lending gravitas to his silent but emphatic protest.
The timing of Myers' statement coincided with escalating diplomatic tensions between the two nations. His gesture followed a pattern of SNL guests using the platform for political expression, reminiscent of recent appearances by Michael Keaton and Billie Eilish, who both wore "Vote" shirts during their respective curtain calls last October.
The incident sparked immediate social media reaction, with the image of Myers' protest shirt circulating widely across various platforms. The moment gained additional significance given the broader context of Canadian public figures responding to Trump's controversial proposal. Notable Canadian athletes and celebrities, including hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, have faced intense scrutiny over their positions on the matter, making Myers' unequivocal stance all the more impactful in the ongoing discourse about Canadian sovereignty and U.S.-Canada relations.
