Newcomer Kate McKinnon nailed it as first lady-hopeful, Ann Romney, this weekend on Saturday Night Live. In a guest appearance on “Weekend Update,” she brought a special blend of crazy eyes, Midwestern sensibilities and blonde perkiness as she explained the hardships and sacrifices she and her husband have faced throughout the campaign. “It’s fall and we’re missin’ apple pickin’ season,” she drawled, wide-eyed. “And we love apple picking, Seth. It’s like Mormon Mardi Gras.”
Romney then countered criticism that her husband is elitist: “Are we more elitist than Barack and Michelle Obama? They’re friends with Jay-Z and Beyoncé. Did I miss something? Is hanging out with Jay-Z and Beyoncé a thing regular people do now?” Not a bad point, but clearly the best part of her defense is how she says “Beyoncé,” dramatically emphasizing the last syllable: Bay-on-SAY. In an episode that got a bit lackluster — especially compared to last week’s solid season premiere — McKinnon shone as a beacon of comedic hope.