In a delightful surprise for fans, former SNL cast member Pete Davidson made a guest appearance on the show’s latest episode, reuniting with his friend and host John Mulaney for a wildly absurd musical sketch.
The sketch, titled “Port Authority Duane Reade,” sees Mulaney playing a Duane Reade cashier who becomes embroiled in a surreal Broadway-inspired saga after Davidson and Andrew Dismukes attempt to purchase a carton of milk.
Breaking The Fourth Wall
What makes the sketch particularly memorable is the moment when Mulaney and Davidson briefly break character to acknowledge their long-standing friendship, adding an unexpected layer of meta-commentary to the proceedings.
“Here you go, Pete; here’s your bus milk,” Mulaney says, handing over the gallon. “Thanks, John,” Davidson replies, prompting an immediate eruption of laughter from the audience as Dismukes looks on in bewilderment.
A Tradition Of Absurdist Sketches
The “Port Authority Duane Reade” sketch is the latest in a long line of delightfully strange musical numbers that have become a hallmark of Mulaney’s time on SNL. Past offerings include “Diner Lobster,” “Bodega Bathroom,” and “Airport Sushi,” all of which blend absurdist humor with show-stopping song and dance.
This latest entry is no exception, as the sketch devolves into a surreal musical extravaganza featuring a host of supporting players. Kenan Thompson and Ego Nwodim deliver a “Lion King” parody about possum milk, while Bowen Yang portrays a twisted bus driver belting out a “Les Misérables”-inspired tune.
Mulaney and Davidson’s Enduring Friendship
The reunion between Mulaney and Davidson is particularly noteworthy, given the latter’s recent hiatus from the public eye. After hosting the SNL season 49 premiere in October 2023, Davidson stepped back from the spotlight to focus on his mental health, checking into a wellness facility for treatment.
This latest appearance marks Davidson’s first return to SNL since then, and it’s clear that his rapport with Mulaney remains as strong as ever. The two have collaborated on numerous projects over the years, including Mulaney’s Netflix special “Kid Gorgeous” and Davidson’s own stand-up special “Turbo Fonzarelli.”
A Shift in Davidson’s Public Image
The visible progress Davidson has made with his highly publicized tattoo removal journey is a notable aspect of his appearance. In the sketch, his t-shirt reveals his now-almost-bare arms, a stark contrast to his previously ink-covered physique.
As the reporter notes, Davidson has been open about his desire to remove his tattoos as he pursues more acting opportunities, citing the hassle of having to cover them up for roles. “For some reason, people in movies don’t have them that much,” Davidson has previously explained.
A Triumphant Return for Mulaney
While Davidson’s cameo was a highlight, the episode also marked a triumphant return for Mulaney, who last hosted SNL in October 2023. The comedian’s sixth time helming the show, the latest episode saw him seamlessly slip back into the familiar rhythm of SNL, delivering a hilarious monologue and anchoring several memorable sketches.
From the election-themed “What’s That Name” to the surreal “Beppo,” Mulaney’s ability to infuse even the most absurdist concepts with heart and humor was on full display, cementing his status as one of SNL‘s most beloved and reliable hosts.
As the curtain falls on another memorable SNL episode, the lasting image is sure to be that of Mulaney and Davidson, two longtime friends and collaborators, breaking character and reveling in the sheer joy of being reunited on the iconic SNL stage.
Table of Contents