In this week's episode of "Saturday Night Live," the popular sketch comedy show took a comedic approach to tackle the recent student protests at Columbia University regarding the conflict in Gaza. The show's cold open poked fun at the reactions of parents who pay around $68,000 a year for their children's education.

The skit featured NY1's Community Affairs host Ryan Abernathy, played by Michael Longfellow, interviewing three guests who were parents of students from different colleges. These guests included Doug Hoving, a New School parent portrayed by Mikey Day, Sarah Himes, a Hunter College parent portrayed by Heidi Gardner, and Alphonse Roberts, a Columbia University parent portrayed by Kenan Thompson.

During the interview, Himes expressed her support for free speech but shared her concerns about her daughter's safety and appeared confused about the purpose of the protests. "I don't understand what they think they're accomplishing," she said, feeling strained by her daughter's involvement. Hoving also voiced his support for his son's autonomy, but admitted feeling a little scared due to the perceived aggression of the protests.

However, Roberts, the Columbia University parent, took a different stance, embracing the protests and expressing his pride in young people using their voices to fight for what they believe in. But when Abernathy suggested that Roberts' daughter must feel supported while participating in the protests, Roberts quickly shifted his tone, emphasizing that his daughter, Alexis Vanessa Roberts, should be attending her classes.

The "SNL" cold open cleverly highlighted the contrasting responses of parents towards the student protests, mimicking the concerns, confusion, and difference in perspective that real-life parents may experience in similar situations.

While the skit provided comedic relief, it also reflects the ongoing discussions and debates surrounding student protests and the clash of viewpoints among parents whose children are involved. The satirical take serves as a reminder of the complex nature of these demonstrations and the impact they can have on both students and their families.

As "Saturday Night Live" continues to provide social commentary through humor, this latest cold open adds another layer to the ongoing dialogue surrounding student activism and the varying reactions it can evoke.