Colin Jost Sparks Controversy with Jeffrey Epstein Joke on SNL’s Weekend Update
NEW YORK, N.Y. — On the December 7 episode of Saturday Night Live (SNL), co-host Colin Jost delivered a joke about the recently released images from Jeffrey Epstein’s private Caribbean island that quickly drew attention and sparked debate. The photos, made public earlier this week by House Democrats on the Oversight Committee, included a disturbing image of a dentist’s chair, which has been linked to the allegations of abuse that have long surrounded Epstein.
During the “Weekend Update” segment, Jost referenced the chair, describing it as “very weird” and then made a boundary-pushing quip: “A lot of [Jeffrey Epstein’s] girlfriends still had braces.” The punchline was met with audible groans from the audience, to which Jost responded with a mock protest, “Oh, you think the victims should have crooked teeth?”
The joke comes amid a renewed public focus on Epstein’s crimes following the release of thousands of documents and images by the House Oversight Committee. The committee’s disclosures have shed light on the extent of Epstein’s network and the horrific abuse that took place on his private island, Little Saint James. Among the images, the dentist’s chair has become a chilling symbol, prompting widespread speculation about its possible use in the abuse.
Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender, died in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal charges of sex trafficking minors. His case has remained a source of intense public scrutiny and numerous investigations by federal agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The newly released materials have reignited calls for justice and further inquiry into his associates.
Comedy that touches on sensitive and traumatic subjects often walks a fine line, and Jost’s joke has reignited discussions about where that line should be drawn. Critics argue that making light of victims’ suffering can be harmful and insensitive, while supporters contend that satire and dark humor are tools to confront uncomfortable truths.
SNL, produced by NBC, has a long history of tackling controversial topics through its “Weekend Update” segment, often provoking strong reactions from audiences and critics alike. The show’s ability to blend humor with current events remains a hallmark of its enduring popularity.
As public attention remains fixed on the Epstein case and its broader implications, the intersection of comedy, justice, and public discourse continues to be a challenging and evolving conversation. The Oversight Committee’s ongoing work and the FBI’s investigations underscore the importance of accountability and transparency in addressing these grave issues.
For more information on the House Oversight Committee’s efforts, visit their official page at oversight.house.gov. Details about the FBI’s sex crimes investigations can be found at fbi.gov. To watch the full “Weekend Update” segment from SNL, visit nbc.com/saturday-night-live.
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