A controversy has erupted over a sketch on Saturday Night Live (SNL) that some are deeming “not a joke,” but rather a call to violence against the CEO of UnitedHealthcare.
The offending sketch, which aired over the weekend, featured a stand-up comedy routine from the show’s newest cast member, Sarah Sherman. In the routine, Sherman joked about the potential murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Stephen Hemsley at the hands of a disgruntled patient.
Hemsley, 64, died suddenly in 2017. His death was not the result of foul play, and it is unclear what led to his demise. However, his passing was met with an outpouring of support from the community as friends and colleagues mourned his loss.
The SNL sketch in question, which was met with applause from the live studio audience, has been widely criticized for its tone-deaf approach to humor. Many have taken to social media to express their outrage and disappointment in the show, with some labeling the joke as “not a joke” and “the perfect example of why comedy bombs.”
Others have come to Sherman’s defense, saying that the sketch was simply a work of fiction and not meant to be taken literally. Still, the damage has been done, with many calling for the show to issue an official apology and take concrete steps to promote more responsible comedy.
