Pete Davidson’s ‘SNL’ Birth Control Joke: Outrage, Backlash, and the Line of Comedy

Saturday Night Live’s “Weekend Update” segment has long been a platform for biting social commentary, political satire, and often, controversial humor. Throughout its storied history, the desk has been home to jokes that push boundaries, spark debate, and sometimes, generate significant public outcry. One such instance that sent ripples across social media and media headlines involved cast member Pete Davidson during an appearance that quickly went viral for all the wrong reasons. His comments regarding his then-fiancée, pop superstar Ariana Grande, and a deeply personal topic ignited a firestorm, raising questions about humor, consent, and the responsibility of public figures.

The segment in question saw Pete Davidson, a fan favorite known for his candid and often self-deprecating humor, join co-anchor Colin Jost at the iconic “Weekend Update” desk. Davidson’s appearances were highly anticipated during this period, given his high-profile engagement to Ariana Grande, which had captivated tabloids and fans alike. Their relationship was a frequent subject of his stand-up and SNL bits, offering a glimpse into his personal life, albeit often exaggerated for comedic effect. However, one particular joke during this appearance crossed a line for many viewers and critics, moving beyond typical relationship humor into a realm deemed offensive and problematic.

During his conversation with Jost, Davidson touched upon various aspects of his newfound fame and the scrutiny accompanying his relationship with Grande. He openly discussed receiving death threats, an unfortunate reality many celebrities face, and made a rather stark comparison of his treatment to that of “Batkid,” a young cancer patient whose wish to be Batman for a day gained national attention. While these remarks highlighted the pressures he was under, it was a subsequent comment that truly polarized the audience. Davidson quipped, “Last night I switched her birth control with Tic Tacs. I believe in us and all, but I just want to make sure that she can’t go anywhere.” This seemingly off-the-cuff remark immediately drew a visceral reaction from viewers both in the studio and, more significantly, across social media platforms.

The joke, intended as a dark comedic take on commitment and relationship control, was widely interpreted as trivializing the serious issue of reproductive coercion and a woman’s bodily autonomy. Critics swiftly pointed out that tampering with someone’s birth control, even in jest, touches upon themes of non-consensual acts and a profound lack of respect for a partner’s personal choices and health. The outrage was palpable and swift. Social media platforms, particularly Twitter, became a hotbed of discussion, with users expressing a mix of shock, anger, and disappointment. Many highlighted the real-world implications of such an act, emphasizing the importance of consent and trust in relationships, and the grave consequences of undermining a partner’s reproductive health decisions.

Among the flood of reactions, Twitter user @FemmeFictionale encapsulated the sentiments of many, tweeting, “Pete Davidson has been pretty funny… except for the birth control swapped with tic tacs joke. Don’t listen to #SNL , guys. DO NOT MESS WITH A WOMAN’S BIRTH CONTROL. WE NEED THAT STUFF.” This tweet underscored the seriousness with which many took the joke, moving beyond comedic intent to address the societal implications. Another prominent tweet from @snapinboca, which circulated widely, stated, “Pete Davidson’s jokes are so cringeworthy and not funny at all, but the birth control joke was scary. It was rape culture-y. You don’t make jokes about that.” This specific comment directly linked Davidson’s joke to “rape culture,” a term used to describe societal attitudes that normalize or trivialize sexual assault and coercion, intensifying the discussion around the comedian’s judgment and SNL’s editorial oversight. These reactions underscored a broader societal conversation about where the line of acceptable humor lies, especially when it concerns sensitive topics like reproductive rights and personal safety.

The backlash extended beyond individual tweets, prompting a wider dialogue about male partners interfering with contraception and the power dynamics within relationships. The joke, even if delivered with a comedic wink, inadvertently shone a spotlight on a form of control that can have serious, life-altering consequences for women. It forced many to consider the impact of celebrity humor on public perception and whether certain topics should be considered off-limits for lighthearted jabs, particularly when they intersect with issues of consent, health, and gender-based violence. The incident served as a potent reminder that comedy, while often a tool for challenging norms, can also perpetuate harmful stereotypes or normalize concerning behaviors if not handled with care and awareness.

While Pete Davidson’s controversial joke dominated much of the conversation around that particular “Weekend Update” episode, it’s worth noting that other segments and events surrounding SNL cast members also generated significant discussion. Co-anchors Michael Che and Colin Jost, for instance, had recently faced their own share of scrutiny for their hosting duties at the 2018 Emmy Awards. Their performance as hosts of one of television’s biggest nights received a mixed to largely negative reception from both critics and the viewing public, with many finding their humor to be flat, awkward, or even offensive at times. This illustrated the constant pressure on comedians in the public eye, where every major appearance is subject to intense scrutiny and immediate public judgment.

The criticism directed at Che and Jost’s Emmys hosting gig ranged from complaints about their comedic timing to accusations of delivering unfunny or ill-conceived jokes. The overall sentiment from many viewers was one of disappointment, suggesting that the duo, while successful on “Weekend Update,” struggled to translate their specific brand of humor to a broader, more formal awards show audience. One widely shared tweet from @fuggirls perfectly captured this sentiment: “I keep wondering why I am yawning and want to turn this off midway through, and of course, it’s because I’m getting my usual Jost/Che Weekend Update Syndrome.” This tweet cleverly used their SNL segment’s style as a metaphor for the perceived dullness of their Emmy performance, implying a lack of energy or engaging content. Another user, @damienholobrook, tweeted a sarcastically dramatic comment, “That could have been worse. Someone could have died,” hyperbolically expressing the extreme boredom or discomfort they experienced watching the ceremony under their leadership.

Adding to the visible discomfort, social media users widely circulated observations that even celebrity attendees appeared unamused by the hosts. Notably, Chrissy Teigen, known for her candid social media presence and often animated reactions, was reportedly seen cringing during their opening monologue. Such visual cues from well-known public figures often amplify public perception, signaling to viewers that even those within the industry might not be enjoying the show. These instances highlight the fine line comedians walk when hosting major events, where the stakes are high, and the audience’s expectations are diverse and often unforgiving. The dual backlash against Davidson’s specific joke and Che/Jost’s broader hosting performance underscored a challenging period for SNL’s prominent faces in the realm of public acceptance and comedic reception.

In stark contrast to these divisive moments, “Weekend Update” has also provided instances of universally praised comedy and brilliant impersonations. From a previous season, an exemplary moment of this kind featured Kenan Thompson portraying Bishop Michael Curry from Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s royal wedding. Bishop Curry’s electrifying sermon, delivered with passionate rhetoric and a distinctly American evangelical style at the traditionally reserved British royal wedding, became an instant viral sensation. His powerful message of love, juxtaposed with the formal setting, created a memorable cultural moment that “Weekend Update” adeptly capitalized on.

Kenan Thompson, a veteran SNL cast member celebrated for his versatility and uncanny ability to inhabit a wide range of characters, delivered a pitch-perfect impression of Bishop Curry. His performance captured the bishop’s unique cadence, theatrical delivery, and infectious energy, much to the delight of the audience. Thompson’s portrayal wasn’t just an imitation; it was an homage that accurately reflected the spirit of the original sermon while infusing it with comedic brilliance. During the sketch, Thompson’s Bishop Curry humorously recounted his experience at the royal event, asking the crowd, “Did you see it? It was tough man, real tough.” He continued, describing his efforts to connect with the stoic British attendees: “I preached and I testified and I yelled while 500 stuffy English people looked at me…” The comedic genius peaked with his vivid and culturally specific analogy: “It felt like somebody opened a chicken and waffles kiosk in the middle of a Pottery Barn.” This line perfectly encapsulated the cultural clash and provided a moment of shared laughter, demonstrating “Weekend Update”‘s capacity for insightful and broadly appealing humor.

This segment featuring Kenan Thompson served as a powerful reminder of “Weekend Update’s” potential to unite audiences through well-crafted and culturally resonant humor, a stark contrast to the divisive reactions surrounding Pete Davidson’s joke or Che and Jost’s Emmys hosting. It showcased how effective comedy can be when it celebrates cultural moments and offers a fresh, funny perspective without alienating or offending. Such moments reinforce the importance of satire and impersonation as cornerstones of SNL’s enduring appeal, highlighting the delicate balance between pushing boundaries and ensuring widespread appreciation.

The discussions stemming from Pete Davidson’s birth control joke highlight the ever-evolving landscape of public discourse and the heightened sensitivity surrounding issues of consent, bodily autonomy, and gender equality. As comedy continues to evolve, so too does the audience’s expectation for responsible and empathetic humor, even within the context of a show known for its irreverence. The internet and social media have amplified every joke, every gaffe, and every perceived misstep, leading to immediate and widespread scrutiny. This environment demands that comedians and writers are not only funny but also acutely aware of the potential impact of their words. These incidents collectively paint a picture of “Weekend Update” as a consistent barometer for cultural temperature, reflecting both the triumphs and tribulations of contemporary comedy in the public eye.

We continue to monitor and bring you all of the latest news and notable moments from Weekend Update and the broader Saturday Night Live universe. The show remains a pivotal part of American television, constantly adapting, challenging, and entertaining. From controversial gags to heartwarming impersonations, “Weekend Update” continues to spark conversations that resonate far beyond the studio audience. For those eager to delve deeper into the visual aspects of the current season, we invite you to explore all of the newest captivating pics from the 44th season of SNL in our dedicated gallery.