Colin Jost, a prominent figure in comedy and co-anchor of “Weekend Update” on Saturday Night Live (SNL), has engaged in an amusing tradition with fellow cast member Michael Che: they write jokes for each other, often pushing the boundaries of humor and personal sensitivity. This exchange can lead to humorous, albeit occasionally controversial moments. A recent incident during the Christmas episode on December 21 involving Jost, Che, and actress Scarlett Johansson showcased just how unpredictable the reactions to humor can be, elevating discussion beyond mere entertainment.
The Christmas episode of SNL featured a notable joke crafted by Che that compared the famed actress’s vagina to Costco’s roast beef sandwich. This juxtaposition not only highlighted the ongoing trend of shock humor but also provoked genuine surprise from Johansson, who was watching backstage during the live broadcast. Jost recounts that while SNL informed Johansson about the impending vulgarity of the joke, her reaction was still unexpectedly shocked when it was delivered. The fact that Jost admitted to being flabbergasted by her reaction adds an intriguing layer to an already complicated narrative surrounding humor and personal identity.
Even though Johansson had reportedly given SNL the green light for a raunchy joke, her quick shift from being “open to it” to being visibly shocked serves as a reminder of the complexities inherent in humor. Comedians often navigate tricky waters where consent and the nature of humor intertwine. It begs the question of whether any joke, regardless of pre-approval, can ever truly prepare someone for the punchline. Jost’s assertion that he is often at the mercy of his acting skills further complicates the palette of emotions at play, suggesting that reactions in the world of live comedy can be as unfiltered as the jokes themselves.
Following the segment, Jost appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, where he expressed his awareness of the potential fallout from the joke. He humorously alluded to being “in trouble” not just with Johansson but potentially with a wider audience. This comment emphasizes the ripple effect that a single uncomfortable moment in comedy can create, reaching beyond the immediate laughter it may incite. It sheds light on the responsibilities of comedians and the balance they must strike between pushing boundaries and maintaining personal relationships.
The SNL incident involving Colin Jost and Scarlett Johansson encapsulates the unpredictable nature of comedy, where preparation can quickly give way to unforeseen reactions. It accentuates the delicate dance between creative freedom in humor and the emotional responses it evokes, urging both comedians and audiences alike to engage thoughtfully with the layers of meaning in comedic expression. Whether viewers find humor in the moment or challenge its appropriateness, it remains apparent that jokes like this can ignite deeper conversations about boundaries, consent, and the personal impact of comedy.