Saturday Night Live has ignited a fierce backlash from its own audience, with fans criticising the long-running comedy show for what they describe as 'tone deaf' and insufficiently critical sketches concerning Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and President Trump. The controversy erupted during the programme's signature Weekend Update segment, where co-anchor Michael Che addressed escalating tensions between civilians and federal immigration officers in the wake of two fatal incidents in Minnesota.
Audience Reaction: 'A Big Misreading of the Room'
While Che's monologue prompted laughter within the studio, online reactions from typically left-leaning viewers were scathing. Many argued the humour was far too mild given the gravity of the situation involving ICE. 'I get that ICE agents are people...allegedly...and they have a job to do,' Che began during the broadcast. 'But at some point while you're pepper spraying old ladies or shooting at a nurse, do you ever stop to ask yourself, "Are we d***s?"'
This attempt at satire was met with immediate disapproval on social media platforms. One user on X, formerly known as Twitter, stated: '"Don't be such d***s" is a pretty big misreading of the room by Che and his SNL buds. ICE is engaging in Gestapo-like tyranny, and no mail-it-in putdown in response is going to cut it.' Another commenter expressed profound disappointment, claiming the sketch 'didn't go far enough,' and added: 'That nurse was murdered in the streets and they are kidnapping children. And that's the best of it. Yeah. Read that sentence again. The worst is happening elsewhere.'
Criticism of Normalisation and Inadequate Commentary
The critique extended beyond the jokes being merely unfunny, delving into accusations that the programme was failing in its satirical duty. A third viewer remarked: 'Not a strong enough admonishment. They aren’t “d***s”. They are murderers.' Further comments highlighted a perceived normalisation of state violence, with one person posting: 'SNL normalizing ICE's brutality? Cute. But when do we get the skit on how "satire" excuses real blood on the streets? Wake up, America—laughing won't stop the deportations.'
Conversely, a dissenting voice challenged the premise, asking: 'SNL needs to ask why are “old ladies and nurses” defending illegal aliens who are gang members and child rapists from being deported?' However, the overwhelming sentiment from critics was summarised by another viewer who simply stated: 'Way too light and lacking any punch. And not funny.'
The Tragic Incident in Minnesota
This wave of criticism against SNL's comedic approach is directly linked to the recent killing of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care unit nurse who had previously worked for the Department of Veterans Affairs. Pretti was fatally shot by Border Patrol agents, who are part of the Department of Homeland Security, on a street in Minnesota. Federal officials asserted that Pretti had 'brandished' a weapon and posed a threat, justifying the use of force.
Disturbing Footage and Unanswered Questions
Newly released video footage of the encounter has raised serious questions about the agents' actions. The clip begins after Pretti had already been pepper-sprayed and forced to his knees. Multiple DHS agents are seen surrounding him, struggling to restrain his arms and legs as he is pushed face-down onto the pavement.
In a critical moment, one officer, distinguishable by a gray jacket and pink-rimmed baseball cap, appears to reach into the back waistband of Pretti's trousers and retrieve a handgun. As that officer moves away from the group holding the weapon, it is believed Pretti's own gun may have accidentally discharged while in the officer's grasp.
In the ensuing confusion, the remaining agents surrounding the nurse likely misinterpreted the source of the gunfire. Almost instantly, another agent drew his firearm and fired directly into Pretti's back, causing him to collapse onto the street. Agents are then seen retreating into the road as approximately ten shots rang out in total, even as Pretti lay motionless.
Federal authorities have yet to provide a satisfactory explanation for why lethal force was deemed necessary after Pretti appeared to be fully restrained and disarmed. Earlier in the incident, Pretti could be seen filming the confrontation with his mobile phone, with his other hand visibly empty. The incident continues to fuel public outrage and debate over policing tactics and accountability.
