Teyana Taylor's recent appearance on 'Saturday Night Live' included a memorable promotional video that cleverly paid tribute to Angela Bassett's iconic film, 'Waiting to Exhale.' The sketch not only captivated audiences but also earned a heartfelt endorsement from Bassett herself, highlighting the comedic brilliance of the homage. Taylor's portrayal, imbued with humor and a keen eye for detail, faithfully recreated the film's intense emotional climax, transforming a tale of marital betrayal into a lighthearted dispute over stolen food. This creative reinterpretation resonated deeply, demonstrating the enduring cultural impact of Bassett's original performance.
The Homage to an Iconic Film Scene
Angela Bassett enthusiastically praised Teyana Taylor's promotional video for 'Saturday Night Live,' which skillfully reimagined a pivotal moment from Bassett's 1995 movie, 'Waiting to Exhale.' The Oscar-winning actress was clearly impressed by Taylor's rendition, in which cast member Ashley Padilla complains that fellow cast member Andrew Dismukes consumed her reserved eggplant parmesan. Taylor, adopting the powerful persona of Bassett's character Bernadine, encourages Padilla to confront Dismukes in a manner reminiscent of the film's dramatic scene. This clever parody showcases Taylor's comedic talent and her deep appreciation for the original work.
In the original film, Bernadine, devastated by her husband's betrayal, confronts him by setting his belongings ablaze in a cathartic act of rage. Taylor's sketch cleverly adapts this emotional intensity to a more mundane, yet equally exaggerated, scenario. Dressed in a nightgown, robe, and flowing hair—a direct nod to Bassett's appearance in the film—Taylor leads Padilla to Dismukes’ dressing room. When Padilla expresses surprise at the costume change, Taylor's focused demeanor underscores the sketch's comedic intent. The scene culminates with Taylor, embodying Bernadine's fury, accusing Dismukes of a serious offense while methodically dismantling his possessions, counting his bobbleheads as a parallel to Bernadine's infamous count in the film. She then lights a cigarette and sets fire to the tchotchkes, capturing the essence of the original scene with a humorous twist.
Angela Bassett's Resounding Approval and the Film's Legacy
Angela Bassett's direct and enthusiastic response to Teyana Taylor's parody underscores the success of the 'Saturday Night Live' sketch in capturing the spirit of 'Waiting to Exhale.' Bassett's comment, "I love this sooo sooo much!!!! You got me GOOD! xoAng," reflects her genuine enjoyment and approval of Taylor's performance. Her validation not only celebrated Taylor's comedic artistry but also reinforced the lasting cultural significance of the original film and its powerful narrative.
Based on Terry McMillan's 1992 novel, 'Waiting to Exhale' explores the friendships and romantic lives of four African American women. Starring Loretta Devine, Lela Rochon, and the late Whitney Houston alongside Bassett, the film became a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its strong female characters and impactful storytelling. The movie’s soundtrack was also highly successful, producing several hit songs. The SNL parody, by echoing a memorable scene from such a beloved film, brings its legacy to a new generation while delighting original fans and reminding them of its enduring charm and relevance. Taylor's hosting of 'Saturday Night Live' and this viral sketch further cemented her status as a versatile entertainer capable of both humor and homage.