Rachel Dratch brings back Debbie Downer for SNL 50th anniversary

Debbie Downer returns in SNL50 special with Jimmy Fallon, Drew Barrymore, and Robert De Niro.

Robert De Niro and Rachel Dratch in the "Debbie Downer" sketch, on February 16, 2025. Photo by Chris Haston/NBC/Getty Images

By Sarah Oktaviany and Novanka Laras

One of Saturday Night Live’s most memorable characters made a surprise return during SNL50, as Rachel Dratch reprised her role as Debbie Downer in a special anniversary sketch. The beloved yet perpetually pessimistic character once again dampened the mood, this time as a bartender at an exclusive backstage bar.

Debbie Downer, known for turning even the most joyous moments into bleak reflections on life’s hardships, has become a cultural reference point since her debut. The term “Debbie Downer” is now commonly used to describe someone who always finds a way to bring negativity into a conversation.

A star-studded sketch with classic Debbie Downer moments

In the SNL50 sketch, Debbie Downer is tending bar when Jimmy Fallon, Drew Barrymore, and Ayo Edebiri arrive in a celebratory mood, eager to toast the anniversary with champagne. However, before they can clink glasses, Debbie interrupts with an ominous fact—informing them that alcohol consumption can reduce life expectancy.

The camera quickly zooms in for her signature deadpan expression, accompanied by the classic “wa-wa” sound effect, marking the return of her signature comedic style.

As the conversation continues, Debbie finds ways to interject with grim observations, mentioning everything from the end of humanity to the dangers of bird flu, effectively draining the joy from the room.

Robert De Niro faces off with Debbie Downer

The sketch takes an even more hilarious turn when Robert De Niro joins the group. Debbie, in a moment reminiscent of Raging Bull, delivers a dry-eyed, expressionless “You talkin’ to me?”—leaving the legendary actor momentarily speechless.

When De Niro requests a straw for his drink, Debbie delivers one of her most outrageous lines, informing him that microplastics have “taken residence in your testes.” The comment nearly causes the Oscar winner to break character, as he struggles to keep a straight face.

De Niro’s breaking point

Debbie’s relentless negativity finally proves too much for De Niro. In a moment that perfectly captures the audience’s exasperation with her, he erupts:

"I want to laugh and feel joy and have a sliver of hope for three goddam hours of my life. I came here to get a little frigging break from our world right now!"

His frustration reaches a peak as he reaches across the bar to grab Debbie by the collar, playfully choking her in mock frustration.

A classic character revived for SNL’s milestone event

Dratch’s return as Debbie Downer was one of the highlights of SNL50, bringing back one of Saturday Night Live’s most quotable and enduring characters. The sketch played on nostalgia while delivering fresh comedic moments, reminding audiences why Debbie Downer remains a fan favorite.

For long-time SNL viewers, the sketch was a perfect tribute to the show’s comedic legacy, blending classic humor with new faces like Ayo Edebiri, while showcasing legendary performers like De Niro. As Saturday Night Live marked its 50th anniversary, the return of Debbie Downer was a fitting reminder of the show’s ability to balance satire, absurdity, and timeless humor.