2025 NAACP Image Awards: 5 Times Maya Rudolph Had Us in Stitches
Maya Rudolph is a comedic powerhouse who never fails to bring humor and spot-on impressions to every role she takes on.
Whether the veteran comedian is stealing the show in a sketch comedy bit or lending her unmistakable voice to animated characters, she remains one of the most versatile and beloved performers in entertainment.
Her latest NAACP Image Awards nomination for Outstanding Guest Performance for her work on “Saturday Night Live” is proof of her comedic genius. She joins a talented list of nominees, including Ayo Edebiri (Saturday Night Live), Cree Summer (Abbott Elementary), Keegan-Michael Key (Abbott Elementary), and Marlon Wayans (Bel-Air).
In honor of her well-deserved nomination, here are five times Maya had us in stitches with her funniest SNL performances.
Maya and VP Kamala Harris
Rudolph’s portrayal of Vice President Kamala Harris on “SNL” is nothing short of iconic. With her signature blend of warmth and sharp wit, she perfectly captures Harris’s mannerisms down to that infectious laugh.
Ahead of the November 2024 election, the actress delivered an extra special cold open alongside then-Vice President Harris.
Donatella Versace
Long before her Kamala Harris impression, Rudolph made waves on SNL with her spot-on take on fashion designer Donatella Versace. From exaggerated mannerisms to her over-the-top accent, Rudolph’s portrayal was equal parts ridiculous and genius, making her one of the most memorable impersonators in SNL history.
Oprah
Rudolph’s Oprah impression was another fan-favorite. In this skit, she perfectly mimicked Winfrey’s over-the-top enthusiasm while sending audience members into frenzied meltdowns.
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Maya Angelou
What if the revered poet and activist hosted a “Punk’d”-style prank show? That’s exactly what SNL imagined in “Maya Angelou: I Know Why the Caged Bird Laughs.” In the skit, Rudolph’s Angelou gently “pranks” unsuspecting celebrities with harmless tricks, all while delivering poetic monologues.
Bronx Beat with Betty and Jodi
The veteran comedian and Amy Poehler were comedy gold as Bronx moms Betty and Jodi, hosts of the fictional talk show Bronx Beat. With their thick accents, big attitudes, and no-nonsense takes on life, the duo hilariously riffed on everything from the weather to annoying husbands. The banter was rapid-fire, filled with unforgettable one-liners
Watch the NAACP Image Awards live on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 8:00 pm ET/PT on BET.
