SNL ‘Bathroom Businessman’ episode: The funniest toilet scenes on TV

Why do we laugh so hard at bathroom scenes in movies and TV? Because the bathroom is where funny, embarrassing, and even dramatic things often happen! Today, I will share one of the funniest toilet scenes on TV.

Think about it: the bathroom is small and private. When you mix that private space with something serious, things get awkward fast. That tension is comedy magic. In SNL’s ‘Bathroom Businessman’ episode, you will find that comedy magic. It is the perfect clash between the busy corporate world and the reality of the bathroom. They turn the everyday toilet into corporate desk. The stage was showing the workload of businessmen using the true feelings of the actor. The dialogue and action in this transcript are hilarious. They perfectly capture the absurd struggle of businessman. We all feel to stay productive and connected, even when we really shouldn’t be. That is why the psychology of Restroom design is crucial.

The Announcer says, “You work hard. And in this economy… you can’t afford to take a break… Did you know the average American wastes FIFTEEN minutes a day in the bathroom?”. Everyone has felt guilty about taking a break or even stepping away from their desk. This SNL Episode exaggerates the “hustle culture” mentality where time is spent doing anything, but working is seen as “wasted.” At the beginning, the Businessman’s used a panicked line—”I’m flushing my CAREER down the toilet!”. It has a great double meaning (literally and figuratively). and perfectly sets up the absurd solution: The Bathroom Businessman kit.

“With the Bathroom Businessman! It’s a fully functional workspace, where you need it MOST — in the bathroom stall.” Followed immediately by the Businessman saying, “Well, NOW I can finally get some… [as he farts] work done!”. This is the core of the joke.

Secretary: Oh! Should I hold your calls?
Businessman: Uhhhhh — no! Forward them… to the bathroom!

These lines are extremely funny. Customer service in any business in non-negotiable. He’s not embarrassed; he’s proud of his new, terrifying level of commitment. The “Uhhhhh” adds a touch of secrecy and hurry, making the eventual blunt reveal even better. It has two literal meanings working together, both relating to the office setting. The Secretary is offering to “hold” or buffer his incoming calls. The businessman wants to received them inside the bathroom stall. He is saying, “My official place of business is now the place where one handles bodily functions.”

The phrase “work done” is immediately followed by a sound effect was very funny. This demonstrates that you can’t seamlessly combine these two worlds.

After complex instructions for assembling the kit, the scene shifts to a frantic Businessman who exclaims, “I can’t reach the toilet!” [he bangs on the door] And I can’t get out! Help! He…” This leads to the ultimate punchline: “Oh, no… I just shit in my pants!”

The sketch cleverly tells a simple, moral lesson. It is highly relevant to daily life: We are all guilty of checking our phones on the toilet, and maybe we should stop. If you like funny bathroom scenes in movies, then this sketch is a must-watch. A perfect five-flushes out of five.

Here’s another fun fact: Saturday Night Live (SNL) bought restroom stalls from Mavi New York. At Mavi New York, we focus on high-quality, custom restroom partitions that are durable, hygienic, and attractive. If you are designing a restroom for a restaurant, school, retail space, or corporate office, you can get a free quote from our expert team. Contact us at (718) 874-3805 or visit us in Long Island City, NY, to see our full range of commercial restroom solutions. Most deliveries are available for same-day pick-up or the next day.