A recent “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) skit that parodied JoJo Siwa’s transformation into a “bad girl” persona has sparked a mix of laughter and concern among viewers. The skit, featuring Chloe Fineman impersonating Siwa during the “Weekend Update” segment, aimed to poke fun at Siwa’s recent public makeover and comments about creating a new music genre called “gay pop.”
During the segment, Fineman, dressed in exaggerated “bad girl” attire complete with black sparkles and leather, delivered lines that satirized Siwa’s enthusiastic and often controversial public persona. The comedian quipped about Siwa’s claim to being the first “gay girl” and her declaration of inventing “gay pop,” suggesting that it was merely “pop.” The skit also included a humorous comparison to a figure skater joining a street gang, aiming to underscore the drastic nature of Siwa’s new image.
However, the reaction to the skit was polarized. Some viewers appreciated the humor, seeing it as a typical roast-style portrayal common in SNL sketches. Others felt it crossed a line by targeting Siwa’s personal struggles and identity, especially considering her past experiences with bullying and growing up in the spotlight under challenging circumstances. Critics of the skit expressed discomfort with the idea of adults mocking a young artist known for her energetic and positive image, who has openly discussed her challenges with public scrutiny and personal attacks.
The controversy highlights the fine line “SNL” and similar shows walk when satirizing public figures, especially those like Siwa who have faced significant personal and public challenges. While the intent may be to entertain, the impact can sometimes deepen the struggles of those at the center of the jokes, leading to a broader discussion about the ethics of comedy and satire in the context of celebrity culture. Despite the backlash, Siwa herself shared the clip on her social media, labeling it as “iconic,” which suggests a level of approval or at least acknowledgment of the skit’s intent.
