The first episode of 'Saturday Night Live' season 50 sees Bowen Yang channeling Moo Deng the baby hippo, a 'free Diddy' parody, and a surprise cameo by one of the beloved alums.
- September 29, 2024
AceShowbiz - The premiere episode of "Saturday Night Live" season 50 featured notable skits, including a cold open with Maya Rudolph as Vice President Kamala Harris and Dana Carvey as President Joe Biden. "SNL" alum Andy Samberg made a surprise appearance as Harris' husband Doug Emhoff while Jim Gaffigan transformed into Harris' running mate Tim Walz.
Furthermore, an appearance by Devon Walker as Eric Adams highlighted the mayor's controversial actions, poking fun at his dealings and recent indictment including his ties to the embattled music mogul P. Diddy by calling for "free Diddy."
Additionally, if you've been active on social media lately, chances are you've encountered Moo Deng, the viral baby hippo from Thailand that has taken the internet by storm. On "Saturday Night Live" much-anticipated Season 50 premiere, Bowen Yang brought Moo Deng to life during the "Weekend Update" segment. Seemingly mirroring Chappell Roan's recent statements, the show addressed the animal's newfound fame with wit and humor.
Appearing in a charming purple hippo costume, Yang's Moo Deng took a no-nonsense approach to discuss the overwhelming attention and the need for setting boundaries. "For the past 10 weeks, I've been going non-stop, running around, eating lettuce, trying to bite the hose from a water, the water from a hose, and the response has been overwhelming," Moo Deng said.
Yang did not shy away from advocating for Moo Deng's right to privacy, "Reminder, women owe you nothing! When I'm in my enclosure tripping over stuff, biting my trainer's knee, I am at work. That is the project. Do not yell my name or expect a photo just because I'm your parasocial bestie, or because you appreciate my talent."
In the end, Bowen Yang's portrayal of Moo Deng was both entertaining and thought-provoking, delivering important messages wrapped in humor, making the "SNL" premiere a noteworthy event for both fans and critics.