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On August 6, 2024 Presidential elections reached an interesting point when Kamala Harris announced Tim Walz as her running mate. “One of the things that stood out to me about Tim is how his convictions on fighting for middle class families run deep. It’s personal,” Harris said of her decision. The news was met with great joy online. With actress Maya Rudolph reportedly on board to play Harris on Saturday Night Live, fans began suggesting who would take on Walz.
The two-time Minnesota governor has often been hailed for his jolly vibe and father-figure persona. Hence, it came as no surprise when fans echoed Steve Martin’s name. He was the perfect actor to bring the Nebraska native to life. At least that was what fans thought until Martin turned down the offer. He explained to the LA Times,
“I wanted to say no and, by the way, he wanted me to say no. I said, ‘Lorne, I’m not an impressionist. You need someone who can really nail the guy. I was picked because I have gray hair and glasses.'”
With the Only Murders in the Building actor out, here are five actors that could take up the mantle to play Walz on the beloved sketch show.
Jim O’Heir
O’Heir is best known for playing Jerry Gergich on Parks and Recreation. He already has the funny bone and acting chops on locks. Alongside Martin, his name was frequently mentioned, pushing him to the top of list. O’Heir started his career with improv, making him perfect for SNL. Luckily, unlike Martin, the 62-year-old is not entirely opposed to playing Walz. He poked fun at the consideration on X, commenting on a poll. “I don’t mind being in the mix but that’s the best pic of me that they could come up with? LOL,” he wrote alongside a photo of him and other contenders.
Darrell Hammond
Hammond’s 14-year legacy as a cast member of Saturday Night Live makes him a great choice. The comedian who departed the show in 2009, at 53, was the oldest cast member in the show’s history. During his time on SNL, Hammond had the most appearances second to Kenan Thompson and frequently impersonated former president Bill Clinton. With one president already under his belt, it should be no trouble for him to portray a potential vice president like Walz. Fans seem to agree with the notion. One Internet user explained:
“None of you people have ever watched SNL before the last 5 years, because Darrell Hammond was by far the best impressionist they ever had and he would nail Tim Walz.”
Jim Gaffigan
Another fan favorite is stand-up comedian Jim Gaffigan. The “clean” comic has been poised as a great replacement for Martin. Although his specialty is stand-up, Gaffigan has some acting credits to his name from his roles in Sex and the City, Law & Order, and more. His white hair is also an added bonus when it comes to playing Walz. “Steve Martin is a legend, but Jim Gaffigan is absolutely the right choice to play Tim Walz on SNL,” declared one fan. Another comment read, “Get Jim Gaffigan to play him on SNL.”
Wallace Shawn
With a 59-year Hollywood career under his belt, Wallace Shawn is more than prepared to bring Walz to our screens. He is famous for his roles in Clueless, Princess Brides, and Toy Story. Also, he has a head shape incredibly similar to that of the Democratic governor, making the resemblance uncanny. “Move over Steve Martin, I think SNL needs to tap Wallace Shawn for his most important role since Princess Bride,” wrote one fan. A second one added, “Tim Walz is like if Steve Martin and Wallace Shawn had a baby.”
Al Franken
Al Franken might not be an actor, but his comedy background makes him another great choice. Before dominating politics, Franken started his career as a writer for SNL in 1975 before joining as a cast member for few stints. He sure has the experience. It also helps that he is vocal in his support for Harris and Walz. “Al Franken playing Tim Walz on SNL would actually be quite the legendary move,” suggested a fan.
