In a memorable sketch on Saturday Night Live, host Inde Navarrette and fellow cast member Marcello Hernández stepped into the world of Spanish telenovelas, showcasing the chaotic hilarity that can ensue with product placements in dramatic settings. The sketch takes a comedic turn as the two find themselves hilariously struggling to promote a uniquely flavored soda while navigating their over-the-top acting roles.
Unexpected Product Placement Challenges
The sketch, titled “El Corazón Que No Siente,” portrays Selena (Navarrette) and Rodrigo (Hernández) as two telenovela actors receiving direction from their director, played by Kenan Thompson. The premise involves a real-life collaboration with Sprite, specifically promoting the drink’s Cherry-Lime Habanero flavor, under the watchful eyes of company representatives Shayna (Ashley Padilla) and Todd (Mikey Day).
First Takes Go Awry
However, things quickly spiral out of control during the first take. Rodrigo boldly declares, “only an obese pervert would drink this,” further commenting, “It’s bad, but they paid for this.” As the cameras continue rolling, the humor escalates in the next take, when Selena hands Rodrigo the bottle to take a sip. Unable to mask his disdain, he calls the drink “poison,” prompting Selena to disregard her previous reluctance and try it herself. Her reaction is instantaneous and visceral; she spits the drink at him, leading to an absurdly dramatic slap that sends her sprawling over the sofa.
Comedy Meets Absurdity
Rodrigo’s shocked response, “Dios mio! The Sprite has made me hit a woman!” adds another layer of absurdity to the scene. As tensions rise, Shayna tries to regain control, insisting the actors pretend the drink tastes good—despite the obvious evidence to the contrary. “We used A.I. to make it,” she admits, heightening the surreal nature of the skit.
Pregnancies and Poisoning
The sketch continues with an even more outrageous plot twist during the third take. Selena dramatically reveals she is pregnant with Rodrigo’s evil twin brother’s child. In a bizarre turn, Rodrigo suggests that consuming Sprite could ensure the child doesn’t come to term. Offended, Selena retaliates by splashing him with the drink, which comically causes his character’s demise.
The Final Twist
As the scene concludes, Todd shockingly reveals that he actually appreciates the chaotic direction the scene has taken. This prompts a dramatic twist, as he reveals, “I am not who you think I am. This whole time, I work for ‘Siete Up,’” removing his outer shirt to flaunt a green 7Up t-shirt, leaving the others in stunned silence as the camera zooms in, accompanied by dramatic music.
