interview by mickey rapkin

On SNL, Fred Armisen has played Ahmadinejad, Steve Jobs, and Camilla Parker Bowles. But he never got into trouble until he did Obama. In blackface. With SNL going prime-time with a series of half-hour election-themed episodes, he speaks.

Why are comedians soft on Obama?
Race. Also, more than race, he’s so beloved.

You played New York governor David Paterson. Any flak?
No! And he’s blind! I’ve done Prince—an African-American. And nothing. There’s something about this guy.

What’s the key to doing Obama?
He is an intense listener. I thought, What is that? Now I’m learning little things as I go. Some of his blinks are longer than others. Also, he moves his head from side to side when he talks. Like quickly, left right left right. It’s brand-new!

You do a fantastic Ahmadinejad, too.
There’s something about his suits that makes me laugh. It’s like, “Wow, that’s an off-white beige suit.” 

McCain has been on SNL. But the cast is so liberal. Awkward?
All of that goes out the window. There’s that little kid in you who goes, “There’s that guy from the government.” He’s a senator. He knows stuff we don’t.

Politics aside, you hope Obama wins? It’s a plum role.
Yes. And politically? Yes, also.