Amy Poehler Reflects on ‘Inappropriate’ SNL Sketches
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Amy Poehler, the renowned actress and comedian, has recently revealed her thoughts on some of the past Saturday Night Live (SNL) sketches that she now considers to be inappropriate. In a candid conversation on her podcast Good Hang, Poehler discussed her regrets about certain jokes and performances during her time on the iconic comedy show.
During the podcast episode released on June 17, Poehler, 53, reunited with her former SNL co-star Will Forte, 55. Poehler, who graced the SNL stage from 2001 to 2008 and even co-anchored Weekend Update, delved into the topic of questionable jokes made during their tenure on the show. Forte expressed his belief that comedy evolves over time, and it becomes essential to acknowledge when certain jokes may no longer be acceptable.
One key moment that Poehler recalled was an In Memoriam segment that SNL aired during its 50th-anniversary celebration. This segment highlighted the past insensitive and tasteless jokes that had been performed on the show. Reflecting on this, Poehler acknowledged her part in playing characters that may have been inappropriate, saying, “I misappropriated. I appropriated. I didn’t know. I did know.”
The discussion prompted Poehler to emphasise the importance of learning from past mistakes and striving to do better in the future. She recognised the significance of making amends and evolving as a performer in the comedy industry.
Throughout her time on SNL, Poehler portrayed various characters and celebrities, some of which are now viewed in a different light. Impressions such as Michael Jackson, Kim Jong-il, and Yoko Ono were among her notable performances. Additionally, she played a character named Amber, a one-legged reality star. Forte also shared some of his more contentious impressions, including judge Lance Ito and former Chinese president Hu Jintao.
In a separate interview on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon earlier this year, Poehler disclosed the enduring impact of her SNL experience on her well-being. She revealed that even now, the late-night writing sessions leading up to the show’s broadcast can sometimes bring back feelings of unease.
As Poehler continues to reflect on her comedic journey, she remains committed to growth and learning from her past experiences. Her candid discussions about the evolution of comedy and the need for accountability serve as a reminder of the ongoing changes within the entertainment industry.
The revelations made by Poehler highlight the complexities of comedic performances and the importance of reassessing past content through a modern lens. As artists navigate the ever-changing landscape of comedy, Poehler’s introspective conversations offer valuable insights into the process of personal and professional growth within the entertainment world.