‘SNL’s’ Jay Pharoah to Play President Obama This Season

Finally, the role of President Obama on “Saturday Night Live” will be played by an African American cast member.

Comedian Jay Pharoah, who became famous on the DC comedy circuit for his impersonation of the president, as well as Jay-Z, Denzel Washington, Eddie Murphy and Kanye West, will take over the “SNL” version of the Commander in Chief from longtime cast member Fred Armisen.

“SNL” creator and executive producer Lorne Michaels made the announcement in an interview with The New York Times posted Wednesday, saying it was time “to shake it up.”

Michaels also announced that Jason Sudeikis will remain with the show at least until January, and will continue to play Obama’s Republican opponent, Mitt Romney.

“SNL” premieres its 38th season this Saturday with host Seth MacFarlane, creator of “Family Guy,” and musical guest Frank Ocean.

Below, Pharoah impersonates ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith in front of him on “First Take.”