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Bad Bunny ’s electrifying takeover of “Saturday Night Live” showcased his musical skills and charismatic stage presence and celebrated his Latino heritage through a series of culturally rich and nostalgic references. From the iconic “Sábado Gigante” to Danish biscuit tins brimming with basic sewing supplies, this performance was a vibrant tapestry of Latino culture, weaving together elements that resonated deeply with the artist and his audience.
In this article, HOLA! explores the significant cultural references that Bad Bunny integrated into his unforgettable “SNL” performance, each adding layers of meaning and connection to his roots.
© GettyImagesFrom “Saturday Night Live” to “Sábado Gigante”
Bad Bunny kicked off his monologue by welcoming viewers to “Sábado Gigante” instead of “Saturday Night Live.” The iconic Spanish language show that ran from August 5, 1962, to September 19, 2015, hosted by legendary TV personality Don Francisco, was one of the most beloved programs in the Hispanic and Latino community; therefore it made history as Univision’s longest-running program and the longest-running television variety series in world’s television history.
During the monologue, Bad Bunny also said in Spanish that New York traffic is so hectic that he preferred to be at “El Show de Raymond” instead of “SNL.” This Puerto Rican program, transmitted through Televicentro and WAPA TV, can now be enjoyed in the United States on Telemundo PR.
© SNLThe Danish biscuit tin
Another great Latino reference was displayed in the “Protective Mom sketch.” When Luis, played by Dominican and Cuban-American comedian Marcello Hernandez, introduced his girlfriend to his tia (aunt), portrayed by Bad Bunny, and his mom, interpreted by Pedro Pascal, and as a gift, Luis’s girlfriend handed a tin of Danish biscuit.
© SNLLuis’ mom then threw away the cookies and filled the empty container with basic sewing supplies like any Latino would do.
© GettyImagesThe prayers of Los Reyes Magos
Luis’ overprotective mother blessed him with the prayers of Los Reyes Magos or Three Wise Men. In Latino culture, January 6 is celebrated as Día de Los Reyes, also known as Epiphany. This holiday marks the day when the Three Wise Men (Los Tres Reyes Magos) presented gifts to Jesus Christ, signifying the end of the Christmas festivities.
© GettyImagesLuis’ mental health
When Luis’ girlfriend shared that he was diagnosed with depression, his aunt and mom quickly denied it. In the past and still for some of the older generations of Latinos, talking about mental health is considered taboo.
© GettyImagesLatino pressure-to-eat feeding practices
Luis’ non-Latina girlfriend finally wins over his mom and tia when she begins push-eating him. Most Latino parents are known for their pressure-to-eat feeding practices, encouraging their children to eat more food even when not hungry.
© SNLThe classic telenovela
The skit shows two feuding brothers in the telenovela “El Pasión de las Padillas.” However, the biggest surprise was Mick Jagger’s cameo, who played the patriarch. Telenoles are known for their dramatic twists and siblings fighting for their inheritance.
