From the Los Angeles Times
His squint, Texas drawl, malapropisms, work habits and political failures have rendered George W. Bush a delicious target in all corners of pop culture. Now that the president is on his way back to his ranch, and before these renderings recede into the mists of ancient history, it’s time to honor the best portrayals. Here are some notables facing off against each other:
Best Saturday Night Bush:
‘SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE’
Description: Ferrell’s is the gold standard of Bush impersonations, begun on “SNL” during the 2000 campaign, refined at fundraisers and on the Web, and now coming to Broadway in “You’re Welcome America” beginning Jan. 20.
Pro: Ferrell’s interpretation hinted at the man-child persona that would serve the actor so well on the big screen.
Con: Ferrell left “SNL” in the lurch, as neither Chris Parnell, Will Forte, Darrell Hammond nor Jason Sudeikis performed Bush as memorably.
Quote: “Strategery.”
vs.
Frank Caliendo
‘MAD TV’
Description: Caliendo served as the show’s resident Bush and continued his impression on TBS’ “Frank TV,” which recently completed its second season.
Pro: Caliendo admits he’s about 70 pounds heavier than the president, but he does the voice dead-on.
Con: Those Dish Network commercials.
Quote: “As the king of America – land of the free, home of the Whopper – I have made mistakes as president. I’ve said some words wrong. Sometimes I get halfway through a sentence and I … ”
