"The final sketch of a Saturday Night Live episode is usually reserved for the show's weirdest concepts. Known as the "10-to-1" slot, these bits evoke the feeling of a night gone a little too late. Think Steve Martin and Bill Murray repeatedly wondering " what the hell is that?" at something off-screen, or a group of profane sloths reciting ridiculous "facts" about themselves in a digital short. These setups are bizarre, provocative, and often hit-or-miss."
"But this weekend's concluding sketch was more sentimental than absurd. In " Delta Lounge," the cast member Bowen Yang played Ed, an old-school eggnog peddler completing his last shift before the holidays and receiving a call from his partner, Ronda (the night's host, Ariana Grande). The two launched into a duet of "Please Come Home for Christmas," before Ronda arrived at the airport just in time to help Ed bid goodbye."
"The sketch doubled as a send-off for Yang, who'd announced earlier yesterday that he would be departing the show after that night's episode. He was overcome with emotion as his character began talking about the job he was leaving behind. "I just feel so lucky that I ever got to work here, and I just wanted to enjoy it for a little bit longer, especially the people," Ed said, holding back sobs. "I've loved every single person who works here, because they've done so much for me, especially my boss.""
Saturday Night Live's final sketch slot traditionally features late-night weirdness and provocative, hit-or-miss bits. The weekend's closer, "Delta Lounge," featured Bowen Yang as Ed, an eggnog peddler finishing his last shift who sings with partner Ronda, played by host Ariana Grande. The sketch served as an emotional farewell after Yang's announced departure, culminating in a heartfelt goodbye and a cameo by Cher as his manager. Yang's tenure included milestones as the third openly gay cast member and the first Chinese American performer, and he has spoken about feeling limited by expectations tied to his identity.
Read at The Atlantic
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