Saturday Night Live Parodies HBO Max’s The Pitt in Latest Episode

If you were a fan of Doug Driscoll, better known as “the guy who punched Dana in the hospital” on HBO Max’s The Pitt, this week’s episode of Saturday Night Live offered a humorous take on the hospital drama. The longstanding late-night show, produced by Lorne Michaels, created a parody just three months after The Daily Show tackled the same subject.

The episode featured Harry Styles making his second appearance as both host and musical guest. Styles, who previously performed on the show as part of One Direction and as a solo artist, joined in the comedic fun, presenting the sketch as “MAHA-spital,” a fictional high-stakes medical show that substitutes dubious advice for sound medical guidance.

“60 ccs of bull semen now,” ordered a character in the sketch. Ashley Padilla portrayed a version of Emmy winner Katherine LaNasa, who plays Dana on the original series, while Styles depicted Dr. Robby, inspired by the character from The Pitt. Other unconventional remedies included burning sage, beef tallow, and whey protein.

In a separate scene, cast member Ben Marshall jokingly revealed, “I found out my parents got the COVID vaccine, and I shot them.” In another moment, he dramatically declared, “Well, nothing we can do,” while pulling the plug on a vegan patient.

The satire didn’t shy away from current controversies, referencing RFK Jr.’s unfounded claim that Tylenol use during pregnancy causes autism. Newcomer Tommy Brennan attempted to distribute the painkiller as Marshall shouted, “Not in my hospital!”

Additionally, the sketch featured a cameo by the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, portrayed by SNL cast member James Austin Johnson.

While the sketch received praise for its sharp humor, it echoed a similar punchline previously delivered by The Daily Show with its parody titled “RFK Hospital,” where correspondent Michael Kosta played a character reminiscent of RFK Jr. and Dr. Robby.