SNL's Fran Drescher Sketch Inspires Creative SAG-Strike-Approved Halloween Costumes for Kids

Saturday Night Live cleverly parodied the ongoing SAG-AFTRA Strike by offering amusing tips on how to avoid scabbing. The sketch featured Fran Drescher (played by Sarah Sherman), the president of SAG-AFTRA, hilariously instructing viewers on appropriate Halloween costumes. In the skit, host Nate Bargatze and his wife (portrayed by Ego Nwodim) were handing out candy to kids dressed as popular characters such as Spider-Man, Barbie, and Black Panther. However, Fran interrupted to point out that these costumes violated the guild's rule against wearing costumes from struck films. While it was clarified that the rule doesn't apply to children, the sketch humorously criticized studios for not sharing their profits with SAG-AFTRA members and providing fair wages. Throughout the sketch, Fran showcased various creative costumes, including a child dressed as Hoda Kotb, who playfully noted that her wig was fake but her wine was real. Ultimately, the sketch effectively shed light on the SAG-AFTRA strike and emphasized the importance of fair compensation for workers in the entertainment industry.

'SNL' Stands With Striking Actors

Sherman's portrayal of Drescher is truly astounding, accentuated by her relentless teasing of Bargatze's lackluster attire even when he is not in costume. For instance, she humorously claims that he is violating SAG regulations by resembling Sloth from The Goonies solely based on his possession of a Baby Ruth bar.

Image via NBC

Initially, the sketch seemed like it would satirize the rule, but as it progressed, it became evident that the intention was to ridicule the studios that continue to withhold payment from their actors. Sherman concluded with a metaphor, drawing a parallel between these studios and the houses on Halloween that outwardly appear unoccupied but secretly indulge in their own Kit-Kats, while the actors represent the hungry children outside yearning for just a small piece of the treat. This clever message, accompanied by the sketch's overall comedic brilliance, can be viewed below.

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Saturday Night Live's 48th season is set to bring a fresh dose of laughs, surprises, and outstanding performances, continuing its legacy as the most Emmy-nominated show in history. With an incredible 93 Emmy wins, including accolades for its special programs and short-form series, SNL has solidified its place in television history. The show has also received the esteemed George Foster Peabody Award twice and has been inducted into the Broadcasting Hall of Fame.

SNL's popularity remains unmatched, consistently earning the highest ratings and attracting the largest audience of any late-night program, reaching millions of viewers each week on both traditional and digital platforms. Since its inception in 1975, SNL has served as a launching pad for numerous talented comedy performers. Its comedic sketches often make headlines, tackling political issues and current events. The show features an array of memorable characters and offers sharp political commentary through its renowned Weekend Update segment.

SNL also stands out for its innovative music performances, regularly featuring top music stars who deliver viral moments on the SNL stage. Broadcasting live from NBC's iconic Studio 8H in New York City's Rockefeller Center, Saturday Night Live is a one-of-a-kind variety show that continues to captivate audiences across generations.

Premiering on October 11, 1975, SNL is produced by Broadway Video in association with SNL Studios, with Lorne Michaels serving as the executive producer.