Over its 45-year history, “Saturday Night Live” has presented a multitude of sketches, some of which have courted controversy. Here are some notable instances:
Chevy Chase’s N-Word Use with Richard Pryor
In 1975, a sketch featuring Chevy Chase and Richard Pryor aired, wherein Chase used the N-word during a word association game. While initially praised, this sketch is now viewed as problematic.
Chris Farley’s “Chippendale’s Audition”
A 1990 skit with Chris Farley and Patrick Swayze involved a striptease audition for Chippendale’s, criticized for body shaming. Farley’s struggles with self-image and subsequent demise have added weight to this critique.
Dana Carvey’s “Airport Security Sketch”
Dana Carvey’s portrayal of an Indian security guard coercing Sharon Stone to undress in a 1992 sketch raised eyebrows. Carvey later apologized for the sketch’s insensitivity.
Alec Baldwin’s Inappropriate Advances
A sketch in 1994 featured Alec Baldwin making sexual advances towards Adam Sandler’s character, drawing criticism for trivializing child molestation. The Boy Scouts of America even voiced their disapproval.
Jimmy Fallon’s Blackface Impersonation of Chris Rock
In 2000, Jimmy Fallon donned blackface to impersonate Chris Rock, resurfacing as a controversy two decades later. Fallon publicly apologized, acknowledging the offensiveness of his actions.
Fred Armisen’s Portrayal of David Paterson
Fred Armisen’s depiction of New York Governor David Paterson in 2008 was criticized for mocking his visual impairment. Paterson later appeared on the show to address the portrayal, prompting apologies from the cast.
These sketches illustrate how “Saturday Night Live,” while often pushing boundaries, can sometimes cross into offensive territory, sparking debate and reflection on comedic boundaries.
