Alec Baldwin returns to ‘SNL’ for first time since judge dismissed his manslaughter case on ‘Rust’

Alec Baldwin appeared in Saturday night live for the first time since manslaughter charges were dropped for the fatal shooting in “Rust.”

The 17-time host returned for the fourth episode of SNL’s 50th anniversary season, playing Fox’s Brett Baier in the show’s cold open.

Baldwin’s makeup mug was the first thing shown on screen and the live audience screamed, not sure whether they should applaud or gasp.

Scene-stealer Schweddy Balls played the Fox News personality alongside SNL alum Maya Rudolph, who played Vice President Kamala Harris.

Baldwin’s Baier repeatedly interrupted Rudolph’s Harris, echoing criticism of the interview that suggested the host had trampled on the candidate’s answers.

Alec even participated in the closing of the cold open: “Live from New York, it’s Saturday night!” This is the forty-fifth time Baldwin has said the phrase, according to Saturday Night Network. That puts him fifth all-time in that category.

Baldwin appeared on an episode of the show last season after handing over Trump duties to cast member James Austin Johnson following the incident on the set of “Rust” in 2021.

Saturday’s episode was hosted by “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” actor Michael Keaton, with musical guest Billie Eilish.