Dana Carvey, a renowned comic personality, confessed that he deliberately went soft while imitating Joe Biden, the former President, on account of Biden’s mental health issues. Carvey understood the delicate ground he was treading in the world of comedy as Biden’s cognitive impairment was a known fact. Many of his contemporaries chose not to ridicule Biden to avoid putting him in an uncomfortable position.
Carvey held the role of Biden on the prestigious platform ‘Saturday Night Live’ during the years 2024 and 2025, encompassing the closing period of Biden’s presidential tenure. He expressed his intention to render Biden amusing, to make his impersonation universally comedic. To achieve this, Carvey needed his portrayal to align closely with the public’s perception of Biden.
In making attempts to capture Biden’s character, Carvey intentionally left out some elements. Speaking during a podcast conversation with co-host David Spade and guest Julie Bowen, Carvey explained his restrained approach. He retold a famous line from his impersonation, stating solemnly, ‘I’m not kidding around here, I’m being serious.’
Co-host Spade shared his views, suggesting that it is simpler to lampoon Biden as a President rather than as an old man. Spade opined that once an individual becomes President, they open themselves to comedic criticism. However, Biden seemed to evade comedic scrutiny for a significant period.
Taking on the role of Biden was an experience Carvey relished the most due to its multifaceted appeal, with the character offering ‘like 10 hooks.’ The comedian’s repertoire also includes President George H.W. Bush and Ross Perot, besides other characters on ‘Saturday Night Live’.
During a noteworthy episode of the podcast, Carvey revealed an amusing anecdote. Reportedly, one of Biden’s staffers was present in the ‘SNL’ audience and showed appreciation for Carvey’s impersonations.