Debbie Downer

Debbie Downer is a character played by Rachel Dratch on the television show Saturday Night Live.

First appearance in 2004 season

The first appearance of Debbie Downer was in May 2004 with guest host Lindsay Lohan. Debbie and 4 of her family members are eating breakfast at a very happy Disney restaurant. When the family is making small talk, Debbie (who is wearing a depressing brown shirt compared to bright colors by her family), makes depressing comments on current events followed by a look in the camera and a 'uh-oh' type sound. Some of her comments include, "Did you guys hear about that train explosion in North Korea? That, we may never know how many people perished." and "By the way, it's official...I can't have children."

Related Topics:
2004 - Lindsay Lohan - Disney - North Korea

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The first sketch has become a fan favorite due to the fact that none of the actors could stifle their laughter after Debbie said one of her depressing announcements. One line she messed up during the first sketch: The media is so sensitive there, so secretive. She was originally intended to say secretive, only contributing to the giggle fit. By the end of the skit, Jimmy Fallon, Amy Poehler, Dratch and Lohan were so far gone they were holding back tears.

Related Topics:
Jimmy Fallon - Amy Poehler

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Upon syndication, The original Debbie Downer sketch was replaced by the dress rehearsal version, along with an opening title card explaining that the live version was problematic. In dress, the cast laughs just as hard, if not harder.

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Later in the season

Debbie Downer appeared in another skit later that year with Ben Affleck as the guest host. The cast members who appeared in this skit were more composed and did not laugh out loud at Debbie's pronouncements. This trend continued throughout the rest of the season.

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